Broad-billed Sandpiper
Broad-billed Sandpiper
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The Broad-billed Sandpiper, Calidris falcinellus, is a distinctive small wader belonging to the Scolopacidae family, renowned for its unique bill shape. This long-distance migratory species breeds across the Arctic and sub-Arctic regions of Eurasia, undertaking extensive journeys to winter in coastal areas across Africa, South Asia, and Australasia. It is a sought-after species for birdwatchers due to its characteristic feeding behaviour and often elusive nature.
Where to spot
During the breeding season, Broad-billed Sandpipers inhabit bogs, fens, and wet tundra. On migration and in winter, they are primarily found on coastal mudflats, estuaries, saltmarshes, and lagoons, but can also be seen on muddy edges of freshwater lakes and marshes inland. They prefer soft, muddy substrates for foraging.
How to spot
Spotting this bird requires patience; look for its characteristic rapid probing motion with its unique bill. It often feeds with a 'sewing machine' action, moving its bill quickly side to side as it probes. Its call is a harsh, dry 'krrrip' or 'cherrt'. They can be shy and easily camouflaged among other waders, so a keen eye is essential.
When to spot
The best times to observe Broad-billed Sandpipers are during their spring migration (late May to early June) and autumn migration (August to October), as well as on their wintering grounds. They are most active and visible during low tide when extensive mudflats are exposed for feeding.
Where to spot
During the breeding season, Broad-billed Sandpipers inhabit bogs, fens, and wet tundra. On migration and in winter, they are primarily found on coastal mudflats, estuaries, saltmarshes, and lagoons, but can also be seen on muddy edges of freshwater lakes and marshes inland. They prefer soft, muddy substrates for foraging.
How to spot
Spotting this bird requires patience; look for its characteristic rapid probing motion with its unique bill. It often feeds with a 'sewing machine' action, moving its bill quickly side to side as it probes. Its call is a harsh, dry 'krrrip' or 'cherrt'. They can be shy and easily camouflaged among other waders, so a keen eye is essential.
When to spot
The best times to observe Broad-billed Sandpipers are during their spring migration (late May to early June) and autumn migration (August to October), as well as on their wintering grounds. They are most active and visible during low tide when extensive mudflats are exposed for feeding.
Credits:
Door Sreedev Puthur - Eigen werk, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=35459351
The Broad-billed Sandpiper's uniquely shaped bill, which is broad at the base and slightly decurved at the tip, is perfectly adapted for efficient probing and foraging for invertebrates in soft mud and shallow water.
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