Dunlin
Calidris alpina
The Dunlin is a small, migratory wader that can be seen in Britain during the summer months, particularly in the northern and western regions, and during its passage migrations in spring and autumn. It is a common sight on coastal wetlands, estuaries, and mudflats, where it can be found in large flocks.
Field Identification Guide
Use these features to identify Dunlin in the field.
The Dunlin can be identified by its distinctive black belly patch in breeding plumage, its long, drooping bill, and its reddish-brown back and wings.
The Dunlin is smaller than a Starling, measuring around 17-21 cm in length.
The male Dunlin has a distinctive breeding plumage, characterized by a black belly patch, reddish-brown back and wings, and a white breast and throat, with the plumage becoming more subdued and greyish-brown in winter.
The female Dunlin's plumage is similar to that of the male, although it can be slightly duller and less intensely coloured.
The Dunlin's call is a sharp, piercing "pee-pe-pe" or "treep" sound, often repeated in a series.
The Dunlin is a probing feeder, using its long bill to search for small invertebrates and crustaceans in the mud and sand, and it is often seen running and stopping suddenly as it searches for food, with a distinctive, erratic flight style.
The Dunlin can be confused with other small waders, such as the Sanderling and the Curlew Sandpiper, but it can be distinguished by its black belly patch, longer bill, and more subdued plumage, as well as its distinctive call and feeding behaviour.
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