Shorebirds

Small sandpiper with curved bill and black belly in breeding season.

Dunlins are busy little shorebirds that forage in large flocks along beaches and mudflats. Their slightly curved bills help them probe the sand for food. During breeding season they develop a bold black belly patch, while winter birds appear more gray and subtle.

How to Identify a Dunlin
Small sandpiper with a slender slightly curved bill and quick probing behavior.

Where You'll See Them
Mudflats, tidal marshes, and sandy beaches in large flocks.

What They Eat
Marine worms, small crustaceans, mollusks, and insects.

When to Spot Them
Common in fall and winter along many coasts.

Fun Facts
Huge flocks twist and turn together in beautiful aerial formations.

Beach Etiquette Tip
Give feeding flocks space so they can refuel during migration.

Related Shorebirds
Sanderling
Western Sandpiper
Least Sandpiper