Curlew Sandpiper

The Curlew Sandpiper, Calidris ferruginea, is a small, elegant wader known for its remarkable transformation from the pale grey and white winter plumage to the rich, brick-red underparts of the breeding season. With a length of 18–23 cm and a wingspan of 38–41 cm, it is similar in size to the Dunlin but can be distinguished by its longer, down-curved bill, more elongated neck and legs, and the distinctive white rump that is visible in flight.

Identification Tips

In breeding plumage, the adult Curlew Sandpiper sports patterned dark grey upperparts with a striking rusty hue below. During the non-breeding season, it adopts a more subdued appearance with pale grey upperparts and a clean white underside, complemented by a conspicuous white supercilium. Juveniles are characterized by a grey and brown back, white belly, and a peach-coloured breast. The species' elegant, down-curved bill and longer legs are key identification features throughout the year.

Habitat

The Curlew Sandpiper breeds on the tundra of Arctic Siberia, preferring the edges of marshes or pools, or dry patches of tundra.

Distribution

A strongly migratory bird, the Curlew Sandpiper winters mainly in Africa, with populations also found in south and southeast Asia, Australia, and New Zealand. It is an occasional vagrant to North America.

Behaviour

This species is highly gregarious, often forming flocks with other calidrid waders, especially Dunlins. Despite its easterly breeding range, it is regularly observed on passage in western Europe, likely due to a southwesterly migration route.

Song & Calls

The Curlew Sandpiper's vocalizations include a soft "chirrup" often heard during its aerial courtship display.

Breeding

The breeding season spans from June to late August. Males perform impressive aerial displays to attract mates. Nests are located near marshes or pools, with an average clutch size of 3.8 eggs. Incubation is solely by the female and lasts 19–20 days, with chicks being cared for by the female for 14–16 days post-hatching.

Similar Species

The Curlew Sandpiper can be confused with the Dunlin but can be differentiated by its longer bill, neck, and legs, as well as its white rump and different seasonal plumage.

Diet and Feeding

Foraging primarily in soft mud on marshes and coasts, the Curlew Sandpiper feeds on insects and other small invertebrates, which it picks up by sight.

Conservation status

The Curlew Sandpiper is currently classified as Near Threatened by the IUCN. Population trends indicate a decline, particularly noted in South Africa and Australia, which may be linked to the effects of global warming on its breeding grounds. The species is protected under the Agreement on the Conservation of African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbirds (AEWA).