Dunlin plumage changes
|
An adult Dunlin in breeding plumage shows the distinctive black belly which no other similar-sized wader possesses. The winter Dunlin is basically grey above and white below. Juveniles are brown above with two whitish "V" shapes on the back. They usually have black marks on the flanks or belly and show a strong white wingbar in flight.
The legs and slightly decurved bill are black. There are a number of subspecies differing mainly in the extent of rufous coloration in the breeding plumage and the bill length. It should, however, be noted that bill length varies between sexes, the females having longer bills than the males. 
The Dunlin is highly gregarious in winter, sometimes forming large flocks on coastal mudflats or sandy beaches. Large numbers can often be seen swirling in synchronized flight on stop-overs during migration or on their winter habitat.
This bird is one of the most common and best-known waders throughout its breeding and wintering ranges, and it is the species with which other waders tend to be compared. At 17–21 cm length and a 32–36 cm wingspan, it is similar in size to a Common Starling, but stouter, with a thick bill. The Dunlin moves along the coastal mudflat beaches it prefers with a characteristic "sewing machine" feeding action, methodically picking small food items. Insects form the main part of the Dunlin's diet on the nesting grounds; it eats mollusks, worms and crustaceans in coastal areas. 
|
Interesting Facts
More ID HelpBarn Owl
Bar tailed Godwit Bearded Reedling Black tailed Godwit Common Kestrel Great Spotted Woodpecker Kingfisher Knot Dunlin Reed Bunting Ringed Plover Marsh Harrier Northern Wheatear Sanderling Siskin Some British Birds of Prey Stonechat Wader ID Help Winter Thrushes Useful Links The Barn Owl Trust The Hawk and Owl Trust RSPB Underwater Photography Wildlife & Environmental Causes Scottish Wildlife National Geographic |
All images appearing on this website and its content are the copyright of John S Betts. All rights reserved.
