Sanderling

A small, lively shorebird with rusty tones in breeding plumage, known for its frosty appearance that fades by mid-summer to reveal a deep red neck. Distinguished from the Red-necked Stint by its size and bill thickness, displaying a bold white wing stripe in flight. Often spotted on open beaches, energetically chasing waves and feeding in the sand. Found globally, breeding in the high Arctic tundra and wintering on coastlines worldwide except Antarctica. Juveniles are marked with black-and-white speckles above, while adults exhibit a very pale winter plumage. Additionally observed on mudflats, particularly during migration.