The Long-billed Curlew is the largest shorebird in North America, distinguished by its exceptionally long, strongly decurved bill. It is a striking sight in its grassland and wetland habitats.
Where to spot
Breeds in grasslands and prairies of western North America; migrates to coastal mudflats, estuaries, and agricultural fields of the southern United States and Mexico for winter.
How to spot
Look for its very long, curved bill and large size in open grasslands or coastal wetlands. Listen for its distinctive 'cur-lee' call, which gives the species its name.
When to spot
Best observed during spring and autumn migration in various wetland habitats, or in summer on western grasslands. Present in southern wintering grounds from fall to spring.
Where to spot
Breeds in grasslands and prairies of western North America; migrates to coastal mudflats, estuaries, and agricultural fields of the southern United States and Mexico for winter.
How to spot
Look for its very long, curved bill and large size in open grasslands or coastal wetlands. Listen for its distinctive 'cur-lee' call, which gives the species its name.
When to spot
Best observed during spring and autumn migration in various wetland habitats, or in summer on western grasslands. Present in southern wintering grounds from fall to spring.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Its impressive bill, which can be up to 8 inches long, allows it to probe deep into the ground to extract burrowing crabs and other invertebrates that are inaccessible to other shorebirds.
We use cookies to improve your experience on our website. Essential cookies are necessary for basic functionality, while analytical cookies help us understand how visitors use our website so we can improve it.
Cookie Preferences
Customize your privacy settings
Choose which cookies you want to allow. Necessary cookies are always enabled for the basic functionality of the website. You can always change your preferences later via the cookie settings in the footer.
Necessary Cookies
These cookies are essential for the website to function properly and cannot be disabled.
Analytics Cookies
Help us understand how visitors use our website, so we can improve it.