|
Stilt Sandpiper
Calidris himantopus
At-a-Glance
• Incubation: 19-21 days
• Clutch Size: 4 eggs
• Young Fledge: 17-18 days after hatching
• Typical Foods: aquatic invertebrates and plant matter
|
|
Description
Stilt sandpipers are stunning in spring, with their rich brown barring below and chestnut cheek patches. Unfortunately, they are rarely seen during this season and much more frequent in fall when their colors are much duller. Still, the long greenish legs, slightly down-turned bill, and medium-large overall size render them fairly distinctive.
Habitat and Habits
This sandpiper inhabits mudflats, shallow marshes and flooded fields. They normally forage in belly-deep water, often in association with yellowlegs and dowitchers.
Reproduction and Care of the Young
Breeding takes place in northern Canada and Alaska. Nests are placed on the ground near water. |
|