Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q.s) about Delaware Bay Rufa Red Knots and Horseshoe Crabs

Frequently asked questions about rufa red knots and horseshoe crabs in Delaware Bay. Questions relate to population trends of both species, as well as management of the horseshoe crab harvest. This FAQ also includes information about conservation efforts for these species, and how the public can help recover red knots and horseshoe crabs. 

Author(s)
Wendy Walsh, New Jersey Field Office
Senior Fish & Wildlife Biologist
Endangered Species
Expertise
Endangered Species Act,
coastal issues (beach nourishment, dredging),
coastal species (rufa red knot, piping plover, seabeach amaranth),
offshore wind
Area
NJ
Galloway,NJ
Publication date
Type of document
Education
Facility
New Jersey Pinelands
The New Jersey Field Office protects endangered species, supports federal planning, mitigates environmental contamination, and partners with landowners to restore wildlife habitats. We work with others across New Jersey to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats...
Program
A rocky shoreline of a river. The water is calm. Mist and green branches line the river.
The Ecological Services Program works to restore and protect healthy populations of fish, wildlife, and plants and the environments upon which they depend. Using the best available science, we work with federal, state, Tribal, local, and non-profit stakeholders, as well as private land owners, to...
Juvenile Northern Pike in aquarium at Gavins Point National Fish Hatchery, South Dakota
The Fish and Aquatic Conservation program leads aquatic conservation efforts for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. We are committed to tackling the nation’s highest priority aquatic conservation and recreational challenges to conserve, restore, and enhance fisheries for future generations.
Species
A group of juvenile and adult red knot forage along the shoreline.

Length: 25-28 cm. Adults in spring: Above finely mottled with grays, black and light ochre, running into stripes on crown; throat, breast and sides of head cinnamon-brown; dark gray line through eye; abdomen and undertail coverts white; uppertail coverts white, barred with black. Adults in...

FWS Focus
Ecosystem
Subject tags
Endangered and/or Threatened species
Fisheries management
FWS and DOI Region(s)