H.J. Ruiz – Avian101

Set # 132

Sanderlings

Sanderlings

Sanderlings feed on invertebrate prey buried in the sand in the upper intertidal zone. In North America, this diet largely consists isopods and the mole crab. When the tide is out, these crustaceans live in burrows some way beneath the surface. When the tide comes in, they move into the upper layers of sand and feed on the plankton and detritus that washes over them with each wave. They then burrow rapidly down again as the water retreats. They leave no marks on the surface, so the sanderlings hunt for them by plunging their beaks into the sand at random, consuming whatever they find.

Reddish Egret

Reddish Egret

Reddish egrets’ breeding habitat is tropical swamps. It nests in colonies, often with other herons, usually on platforms of sticks in trees or shrubs. These colonies are usually located on coastal islands. These birds have raucous courtship displays. They generally involve shaking of the head during the greeting ceremony, followed by chases and circle flights. They also involve raising of the neck, back and crest feathers, accompanied by bill clacking, similar to the tricolored heron.

© HJ Ruiz – Avian101

2 thoughts on “Photography of Birds – Set # 132”

1. Love the composition on the reddish egret image, HJ. And the courtship antics would be amazing to witness!

   Reply ↓

   • Thanks, Chris. I’m glad that you like it. 🙂

     Reply ↓

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