Dunlin

Calidris alpina

Order:

Charadriiformes

Family:

Scolopacidae

Size:

16-22 cm

Weight:

33-85 g

Taxonomy:

C. a. alpina (Linnaeus, 1758) and C. a. centralis (Buturlin, 1932)

Short Description:

The Dunlin (Calidris alpina) is a small shorebird found in Pakistan, particularly along coastal areas and wetlands during winter migration. It is characterized by its distinctive black belly patch during breeding season and duller plumage in non-breeding season.

Far far away, behind the word mountains, far from the countries Vokalia and Consonantia, there live the blind texts. Separated they live in Bookmarksgrove right at the coast

In Pakistan, Dunlins are commonly spotted along the coastline, including areas such as the Indus Delta, Karachi coast, and other coastal wetlands. During winter, they migrate to these regions from their breeding grounds in the Arctic.

Dunlins are highly social birds, often found in flocks, particularly during migration and wintering periods. They forage in shallow waters, probing the mud for invertebrates like insects, crustaceans, and mollusks, using their long, slender bills. Their feeding behavior is influenced by tidal patterns, with feeding peaks during low tide. Dunlins are known for their agility and speed in flight, often forming intricate aerial displays during courtship and territorial defense.