Surfbird
NameSurfbird
Common NameSurfbird
Scientific NameCalidris virgata
FamilyScolopacidae
Wingspan (cm)45.5
Length (cm)24.5
Weight (g)190
Plumage DetailsIn breeding plumage, the Surfbird has a heavily mottled gray-brown back with rufous and black markings, a white belly with heavy dark streaking and spotting on the breast and flanks, and a white supercilium. Non-breeding plumage is duller, mostly gray-brown above with less distinct streaking below, but still retains some mottling. It consistently has bright yellow legs and a short, stout bill with a yellow base and dark tip.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations typically include a sharp, high-pitched 'kweet' or a rapid 'twee-twee' call, often given in flight or when disturbed.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatscoastal, tundra
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeSurfbirds breed in the Arctic tundra of Alaska and western Canada. They undertake long migrations, wintering along the Pacific coast of North and South America, from southern Alaska to southern Chile.
Identifying Featuresstocky build, short, stout bill with yellow base and dark tip, bright yellow legs, heavily mottled gray-brown plumage, prefers rocky coastlines and jetties
Description
The Surfbird is a medium-sized, stocky shorebird known for its preference for rocky coastlines. It actively forages in the splash zone, using its stout bill to pry invertebrates from rocks and crevices.
