Curlew Sandpiper
Calidris ferruginea
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Calidris ferruginea
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Mass
~60 g
Habitat
Coastal areas
Diet
Fish and aquatic animals
How to recognize it
The Curlew Sandpiper is a small shorebird with a long, noticeably downcurved bill and a calm, unhurried way of moving. In breeding plumage it becomes especially memorable for the rich rusty front, while at other times it looks much more subdued.
It is usually quiet and cautious, but the voice becomes more varied during courtship, when it also gives longer songs. On migration and at feeding sites it often moves in small groups and spends its time steadily probing for food rather than fussing about.
It breeds in the Arctic tundra of northern Siberia, and outside the breeding season it turns up on coasts, clean beaches, and inland as well. Its diet is mostly worms, molluscs, insects, and larvae, with mosquitoes and midges also taken near the nesting grounds.
Quick Facts
Listen to the call
The Curlew Sandpiper is a small shorebird with a long, noticeably downcurved bill and a calm, unhurried way of moving. In breeding plumage it becomes especially memorable for the rich rusty front, while at other times it looks much more subdued.
It is usually quiet and cautious, but the voice becomes more varied during courtship, when it also gives longer songs. On migration and at feeding sites it often moves in small groups and spends its time steadily probing for food rather than fussing about.
It breeds in the Arctic tundra of northern Siberia, and outside the breeding season it turns up on coasts, clean beaches, and inland as well. Its diet is mostly worms, molluscs, insects, and larvae, with mosquitoes and midges also taken near the nesting grounds.
How to recognize it
You might also see
Sources
- eBird — Calidris ferruginea Sightings map and full description on eBird
- Wikipedia — Curlew sandpiper Encyclopedia article