Basic Description
The Long-billed Dowitcher (Limnodromus scolopaceus) is a medium-sized shorebird found in North America. It has a long, straight bill that curves slightly downward at the tip and is longer than its head. Its overall length ranges from 10 to 12 inches with a wingspan of approximately 20 inches. The bird’s plumage varies between seasons, but it generally has dark reddish-brown feathers on top and white feathers below.
Where To Find This Bird
Long-billed Dowitchers breed in the northern parts of Canada and Alaska, as well as some parts of the western United States such as Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, Utah, Nevada and California. During migration periods they are seen along coastal areas throughout most of North America including Mexico into Central America.
Habitat
The Long-billed Dowitcher prefers marshes, mudflats or shallow lake edges for breeding grounds. During migration it can be found along beaches or near estuaries where there are mudflats or pools of water for feeding.
Food
This species feeds primarily on small aquatic insects such as midges while also consuming crustaceans like amphipods which live in muddy environments during non-breeding months when birds inhabit coastal regions.
Cool Facts
– In flight their long bills make them very noticeable because they appear to be much longer than other shorebirds.
– They have been recorded making noises while moving through vegetation mimicking snakes to avoid being preyed upon by predators.
– A group of dowitchers is referred to as a “confusion” due to their tendency to move around quickly together.
In conclusion, the Long-Billed Dowitcher is an interesting bird that breeds up north but migrates down to the southern coastal regions of North America during winters. With its long bill and reddish-brown feathers, it is easily recognizable and has some cool behaviors that make them unique.
