Region

Atlantic and Gulf coasts of the Americas

Typical Environment

Breeds along coastal beaches, barrier islands, and estuaries from the southeastern United States around the Gulf of Mexico through the Caribbean and locally along the Atlantic coasts of Central and northern South America. Northern breeders often move south to winter on tropical coasts. It favors sparsely vegetated sandy beaches, tidal flats, salt pans, and lagoon edges. The species avoids rocky shores and densely vegetated coastal zones.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 50 m

Climate Zone

Other

Temperament

alert and wary

Flight Pattern

low, fast flight with rapid wingbeats over the surf and flats

Social Behavior

Typically seen in pairs or small groups during the breeding season, becoming more gregarious on migration and in winter. Nests are simple scrapes above the high tide line; both sexes incubate and care for the young. Displays include piping calls and distraction tactics to lead intruders away from nests.

Migratory Pattern

Partial migrant

Song Description

Vocalizations are soft, clear piping whistles and sharp peeps, often given in series during territorial displays. Calls carry well over open beaches and mudflats, with alarm notes becoming more urgent near nests.

Diet

Primarily takes small crabs, especially fiddler crabs, which it seizes and subdues with its heavy bill. Also consumes other crustaceans, marine worms, and occasional insects or small mollusks. Forages by running and pausing, visually detecting prey before a quick lunge.

Preferred Environment

Intertidal mudflats, sandy beach edges near tidal inlets, salt marsh margins, and shallow lagoon shores. Often concentrates at recently exposed flats during low tide where crabs are active.