Dunlin (Calidris alpina)

Common bird found in humid areas of Europe, Asia, Alaska and the Canadian Arctic. In winter they make short migrations to the Pacific and Atlantic coasts of North America, although birds breeding in northern Alaska winter in Asia. Their nest on the ground has the form of a cup lined with grass, holding 4 eggs in a single clutch, which occurs from May to July. The adult in breeding plumage has a distinctive black belly. In winter the plumage is basically grey above and white below. The legs are black, as is the bill that is slightly curved downwards.

Habitat:

Its habitat consists of marshes, beaches, estuaries and wetlands, with preference for silty substrates.

Diet:

It feeds on a broad spectrum of invertebrate species, although it shows a clear pattern of selection for species and sizes, mainly clams, snails and crustaceans (isopods). The Dunlin prefers muddy substrates as feeding places, probably because its main prey is more abundant and accessible in them than in the harder or sandy substrates.

Migratory bird with greater probability of sighting during the winter.

Location:

Mainly on the beach and estuary.