Sanderling
Sanderling
It is somewhat unlike other sandpipers in appearance, which has led to the suggestion that it should be placed into a monotypic genus Crocethia. A more recent review (Thomas et al., 2004) indicates, however, that the sanderling is a fairly typical “stint” or small sandpiper and should be separated from the large knots with its closest relatives in a distinct genus.
This bird is similar in size to a dunlin, but stouter, with a thick bill. It shows a strong white wingbar in flight, and runs along the sandy beaches it prefers with a characteristic “bicycling” action of its legs, stopping frequently to pick small food items. It eats small crabs and other small invertebrates. In spring, birds migrating north from South America consume large numbers of horseshoe crab eggs in the Delaware Bay area.
Photo Gallery
H.J. Ruiz - Avian101 
Thanks HJ, we see these little birds on the mudflats of the north of our country also. Interesting post.
Thank you very much Ashley. 🙂
A good set of pictures HJ.
Thank you Tom! 🙂
I always find the different sandpipers difficult to ID! Good post, HJ!
Thank you Chris, I hope my post helped you a bit. 🙂
Lovely shots, HJ!
Thank you Clare! 🙂
🙂
Wonderful series of these fun-to-watch shore birds, the water adds a nice touch!
Thanks a lot Donna! 🙂