Sanderling

Calidris alba

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Aves · Charadriiformes · Scolopacidae

About

The sanderling is a small wading bird. The name derives from Old English sand-yrðling, "sand-ploughman". The genus name is from Ancient Greek: καλίδρις : kalídris or σκαλίδρις : skalídris, a term used by Aristotle for some grey-coloured waterside birds. The species name, alba, is Latin for "white".

Fun Fact

Sanderlings famously chase ocean waves back and forth on beaches as they feed, running at up to 20 mph to stay just at the water's edge.

Quick Facts

Habitat

Live in burrows some way beneath the surface.

Diet

Eats small crabs and other small invertebrates.

Lifespan

To be updated

Threats

Habitat Change
Human Disturbance

External Data Sources

Recent sightings on iNaturalist IUCN Red List profile

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