Long-billed Curlew

The long-billed curlew, Numenius americanus, is a majestic shorebird and the largest sandpiper commonly found in North America. It is easily recognized by its impressive size, ranging from 50 to 65 cm in length, with a wingspan of 62 to 90 cm, and weighing between 490 to 950 grams. The species is notable for its extraordinarily long, downward-curving bill, which can measure from 11.3 to 21.9 cm, rivaling that of the Far Eastern curlew for the title of the longest bill among shorebirds. The curlew's plumage is a harmonious blend of light cinnamon on the neck and underparts, while the crown is adorned with brown streaks.

Identification Tips

When observing the long-billed curlew, look for a bird with a small head, a long neck, and a bill that curves gracefully downwards. The females are larger than the males and possess a noticeably longer bill, a feature that is a hallmark of reversed sexual dimorphism in this species.

Habitat

The long-billed curlew favors the grasslands of west-central North America as its breeding grounds, where it can be seen performing its courtship displays and tending to its nests.

Distribution

This curlew species breeds in the central and western regions of North America. Come winter, it migrates southward and toward the coasts, seeking milder climates.

Behaviour

The long-billed curlew is known for its elaborate courtship dance and looping display flights. It is a social bird, often seen foraging in flocks. The species is a determinant layer, meaning it lays a fixed number of eggs per clutch, typically four, which range in color from white to olive. The chicks are precocial and leave the nest shortly after hatching. Interestingly, the female often leaves the brood to the male a few weeks post-hatching and departs for wintering grounds.

Diet and Feeding

This curlew uses its long bill to probe into the mud or substrate in search of food, which primarily consists of crabs and various small invertebrates. It also feeds on insects such as grasshoppers and beetles and has been known to consume the eggs of other bird species on occasion.

Conservation status

After facing significant population declines due to hunting in the late 19th century, the long-billed curlew has made a commendable recovery. Previously classified as Near Threatened, it has been downlisted to Least Concern thanks to new research confirming its commonality and widespread presence. However, certain populations, such as those wintering on the East Coast of the United States, remain small and have yet to fully recover.