Whimbrel

Numenius phaeopus

A large, dusky brown shorebird hunts on the mudflats at low tide in winter. Its downward curving bill pushes aside clumps of seaweed and debris to get at the insects beneath. You can be sure it’s a Whimbrel if it has bold stripes on its head. In spring, it will fly all the way to Northern Alaska to nest.

Fun Fact:
In spring, flocks of Whimbrels fly north in V-formation, calling out in loud, rolling twitters.

What’s for Lunch:
Worms, clams, insects, and crabs

Where’s Home:
The lagoon in winter; nests in the high Arctic