Sanderling

Introduction: Sanderlings (Calidris alba) are found in open sandy beaches, estuaries, lagoons and rocky shores associated with algae. Their roosting and foraging periods are usually spent in flocks often with other waders.

Distribution: Most of the entire Namibian coastline, Etosha National Park and other scattered populations have been recorded in some northern and central locations.

Diet: Small bivalves, insect larvae and mussels, some small fish.

Description: Alba is Latin for 'white'. Sanderlings have a similar plumage to the smaller red-necked stint.

Breeding: Non-breeder in Namibia.

Size: 21cm.

Weight: 55g.

Wingspan: 45cm