Gulls, Terns, and Skimmers [Charadriiformes]
Description
Charadriiformes is a large and diverse order of birds that includes gulls, terns, skimmers, auks, puffins, and sandpipers, among others. Many of these species are closely associated with marine environments, though their habitats can range from the open ocean to shores and even inland waterways. Gulls and terns are among the most recognizable, often seen hovering and diving for fish or scavenging along beaches. Auks and puffins are adapted for swimming, using their wings to 'fly' underwater in pursuit of fish. Sandpipers and their relatives frequent shorelines, probing the sand for invertebrates.