Sanderling

Overview

Sanderling (Calidris alba) is a species of Sandpipers, Snipes (Scolopacidae) in the order Shorebirds, Gulls and Alcids. A tiny pale sandpiper that runs with surf on sandy beaches, feeding on stranded organisms; winters on shores worldwide; its quick 'clockwork' running is a beach icon.

Scientific Classification

Genus: Calidris; binomial: Calidris alba; authority: (Pallas, 1764). Typical size: 18-21cm. Average lifespan: 5-10 years.

Distribution

Breeding range: the Nearctic and the Palearctic. Non-breeding range: Worldwide : sandy coastal beaches from temperate to tropical zone: British Isles and Macaronesia (nw of n Africa) through Africa, Malagasy region, Middle East, s, se Asia through Indonesian Arch. to Australia, Melanesia, Philippines and s, c Japan (but rare New Guinea and New Zealand); sw, se Canada and Caribbean s to Tierra del Fuego and including remote islands through e Polynesia.

Conservation Status

This taxon is listed as Extant (living) in the IOC World Bird List.

Remarks

No additional remarks recorded.