Sandpipers are a diverse group of shorebirds known for their long legs and distinct probing bills. These birds inhabit various coastal and wetland environments globally. Their varied diet reflects remarkable adaptations to available food sources. Their feeding habits offer insight into their ecological roles and survival strategies.
Primary Food Sources
Sandpipers primarily consume small invertebrates, their primary caloric intake. In coastal and wetland areas, common prey include marine worms (polychaetes) extracted from the substrate. Small crustaceans like amphipods, isopods, and tiny crabs are also common. Many species also feed on insects, consuming adults and larvae of flies, midges, beetles, and sometimes spiders.
Some sandpipers, like the Western Sandpiper, supplement their diet with “biofilm,” a nutrient-rich layer of diatoms and organic detritus found on mudflats. It provides substantial energy for migratory flights. While mostly carnivores, some species opportunistically consume plant matter like seeds or algae, especially when invertebrates are scarce.
Foraging Behaviors and Habitats
Sandpipers employ various strategies to secure their food, adapting techniques to their environments. A common method is “probing,” inserting sensitive bills into soft sand or mud to locate hidden prey by touch. This tactile foraging is particularly effective in tidal flats and mudflats, where they search for buried worms and crustaceans. Some species, like the Least Sandpiper, utilize a rapid probing technique described as “stitching.”
Another widespread behavior is “pecking,” picking small items directly from the ground or shallow water. It suits catching visible insects or surface invertebrates. Visual hunting also occurs, with some sandpipers, like the Common Sandpiper, scanning for and catching insects in flight. These behaviors are observed across diverse habitats, including sandy beaches, rocky shores, freshwater wetlands, and even agricultural fields, offering different food opportunities.
Dietary Variations
The diet of sandpipers is not uniform across all species or seasons, varying by several factors. Different sandpiper species exhibit distinct bill lengths and shapes, influencing foraging. For example, long-billed species probe deeper for worms, while shorter-billed species focus on surface insects. This morphological difference can lead to niche separation, allowing multiple species to coexist in the same habitat without direct food competition.
Geographic location and seasonal availability influence dietary shifts. During breeding seasons, sandpipers may consume more aquatic and terrestrial insects for higher energy demands. Conversely, in winter or during migration, they may incorporate more plant material or switch to readily available prey. Opportunistic feeding on items like small fish, seeds, or berries occurs when primary invertebrate sources are scarce, highlighting their adaptability.