Terek sandpiper

Introduction: Terek sandpipers (Xenus cinereus) inhabit mud and sand flats along the coastline as well as inland salt pans, roosting communally at high tide on raised sand banks or on perches. They were initially discovered on the shores of the Caspian Sea, specifically towards the mouth of the Terek River.

Distribution: Rare in their range which includes Kunene River estuary, Skeleton Coastal regions, Walvis Bay and Swakopmund and Luderitz.

Diet: Crabs and other crustaceans as well as insects.

Description: Cinereus is Latin for 'grey', referring to the colour of their upper parts and tail.

Breeding: Terek sandpipers do not breed in Namibia.

Size: 23cm.

Weight: 70g.

Wingspan: 45cm.