Sandpipers and Allies [Scolopacidae]

Description

Scolopacidae is a large diverse family of small to medium-sized shorebirds including sandpipers, snipes, phalaropes, and their allies. Members of this family are found in nearly every terrestrial habitat, from arctic tundra to tropical forests, and are especially numerous on coasts and mudflats. They have long legs and long bills, which they use to probe into the soil or water to find food. Their plumage is typically cryptic, blending well with their preferred habitats. Sandpipers have a highly variable diet, feeding on invertebrates, small vertebrates, and plant material.

Genera

Taxonomy