Photographing Shorebirds: Dunlins and Black Turnstones in an Estuary - Jan 19, 2025

Nature has a way of blending opposites, and yesterday's adventure photographing shorebirds proved just that—a sunny yet rainy day at the estuary offered the perfect backdrop for observing the intricate lives of Dunlins and Black Turnstones. I started the morning perched on a nearby log, soaking in the atmosphere as I watched a small group of Dunlins scurry along the shoreline in search of food.

Did You Know?

The Dunlin is one of the most widespread and recognizable shorebirds in the world, known for its incredible long-distance migrations! These tiny birds travel thousands of miles between their Arctic breeding grounds and wintering habitats along coastlines, estuaries, and mudflats.

Their long, curved beaks aren’t just for show—they’re perfectly designed to probe into wet sand and mud for small invertebrates like worms and crustaceans, which make up the bulk of their diet.

These tiny, energetic birds were mesmerizing to watch as they darted back and forth, their slender, pointed beaks dipping in and out of the shallow water. While some were busy foraging, others stood motionless, heads tucked into their backs, balancing on one leg—a classic Dunlin pose of rest.

Despite their petite size, the Dunlins held their own among the larger mallards and American wigeons sharing the shoreline. They didn’t seem to mind the presence of their bigger neighbors, moving confidently and agilely between them. I couldn’t help but marvel at their cooperative behavior—there was no fighting or squabbling among the flock, just an unspoken harmony. One would lead, and another would follow, as if in sync with some silent rhythm.

Their quick movements and unwavering focus on finding food kept me captivated. The way they navigated the shoreline, dipping their beaks with precision, spoke of a timeless instinct. Even as they kept a wary eye on me, they seemed more intent on their meal and each other, a quiet reminder of the balance and camaraderie that exists in the natural world.

"Watching the Dunlins scurry along the shoreline, their small, purposeful movements reminded me that even the tiniest steps forward have meaning. In their quiet persistence and harmony with the world around them, I found a sense of calm—a gentle reminder that life’s rhythm continues, even on the rainiest days."

When I felt I had captured enough of the Dunlins’ story, I ventured further down the shoreline. That’s when I spotted two Black Turnstones perched on a rock at the water’s edge. Their presence was striking, their dark feathers glistening with hints of iridescence against the soft light of the day. Another Black Turnstone was nearby, mimicking the Dunlins’ behavior, probing the wet sand and water for food.

Did You Know?

Black Turnstones get their name from their unique feeding behavior—they use their beaks to flip over stones, seaweed, and debris along the shoreline in search of insects, crustaceans, and other small prey. These clever foragers are perfectly adapted to coastal habitats, where their dark plumage provides excellent camouflage against rocky shorelines.

The Turnstones were equally unperturbed by the mallards and wigeons around them. Despite their smaller size, they held a quiet confidence, moving at their own pace. The contrast of their vivid plumage against the rocks and water was breathtaking—each feather seemed to tell a story, a blend of resilience and beauty forged by life on the rugged shoreline.

As I packed up my camera and walked away, I reflected on how incredible it is to witness these tiny moments in nature—moments that so many might overlook. Dunlins and Black Turnstones may not have the dramatic flair of eagles or herons, but their small, agile movements and subtle yet stunning beauty remind me why I love photographing wildlife.

Every bird, no matter its size, plays a role in the intricate web of life along the shoreline, and it’s a privilege to pause, observe, and capture their stories through my lens.