Curlew sandpiper
The Curlew sandpiper is a migratory bird that nests in the arctic tundra of Eurasia and North America. During migration, they form large flocks and can be seen in large numbers in the Danube Delta, especially in spring and autumn. In the Danube Delta, the red-breasted mergansers feed, rest and prepare for the next stage of their migration.
Calidris ferruginea
Description and how to observe Curlew sandpiper:
The Curlew sandpiper is a medium-sized bird with a characteristic plumage that varies with the season. In summer it has rusty-reddish plumage on its back and reddish-brown belly, while in winter its plumage is more subdued, with shades of grey and white. To spot them, look for them foraging on the sandy shores of lakes and seas. Binoculars and a spotting scope will help you admire the details of the plumage and its behaviour.
What it feeds on Curlew sandpiper:
The main diet of the Curlew sandpiper consists of small invertebrates such as insects, larvae, molluscs and crustaceans. To forage for food, the red-breasted tropic shark uses its long, slender beak to probe in mud and sand.
Threats:
The main threats to the rCurlew sandpiper are habitat loss, wetland degradation, pollution and climate change. Human disturbance during nesting and migratory periods can also adversely affect populations.
Ecological role:
The Curlew sandpiper plays an important ecological role in maintaining the balance of aquatic ecosystems in the Danube Delta by controlling invertebrate populations and promoting wetland health. Through their foraging activities, they contribute to the aeration and mixing of the muddy soil, improving its quality and fertility.
More information about Calidris ferruginea:
- The best time to spot the red-breasted grebe in the Danube Delta: Spring and autumn.
- Recommended spots for spotting the red-headed chough: Alexandru Borza Botanical Garden, Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve.
- Photography tips: Use a telephoto lens to get detail shots, choose a day with good light and try to get as close to the bird as possible without disturbing it.
Protect nature! Respect the rules and don't disturb wildlife.
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