the effect of human disturbance on colonial waterbirds is a global issue. many colonial waterbirds are migratory, and their protection depends on balancing conservation of their habitats and habits across many regions. such protection is critical given the economic benefits that come from a growing ecotourism industry, involving bird watching and other recreational activities. this thesis begins with a review of the literature available via web of science and jstor, to determine whether the effects of human disturbance on the habit, behaviour, and physiological characteristics may differ with biome, migratory habit and functional group.