We see this species in the west of Scotland during autumn migration, but whilst other waders such as Dunlin, Curlew and Redshank visit all kinds of shores, Sanderlings are very selective and restrict themselves to sandy ones. Whereas Dunlins busy themselves ‘stitching’ the sand or mud with their bills, Sanderlings enjoy running along the sea’s edge, their legs a blur as they move with sometimes barely believable speed. In between these bursts of frenetic energy they thoughtfully probe along the water’s edge, and do not seem to mind doing this shoulder-to-shoulder with others of their kind.
In winter plumage they are a dazzling white, seemingly in formal attire. We have occasionally seen small groups of them, maybe 4-6 individuals, running along by the sea, all coming to a halt simultaneously, and turning in unison to face the same direction, enhancing the impression of formality. We would love to see one in breeding plumage but in the meantime we are happy to see these dazzlingly white waders any time.
Lee
In winter plumage they are a dazzling white, seemingly in formal attire. We have occasionally seen small groups of them, maybe 4-6 individuals, running along by the sea, all coming to a halt simultaneously, and turning in unison to face the same direction, enhancing the impression of formality. We would love to see one in breeding plumage but in the meantime we are happy to see these dazzlingly white waders any time.
Lee
