Bird Gallery Index

Sanderling image © Alan Murphy

Family: (Scolopacidae) Sandpipers

Preferred Habitat: Sandy beaches

Seasonal Occurrence: Common September through May. Lesser numbers June through August

Notes: Palest winter sandpiper. Found in flocks. Races along beaches, following the retreating tide to feed on marine worms, crustaceans and mollusks. When not feeding, Sanderlings rest in tight groups, often with one leg tucked up. They do not breed in our area. Bolivar Flats Shorebird Sanctuary is one of the best areas to view Sanderlings, where in winter often hundreds can be counted.
- Susan Billetdeaux