SANDERLING.
248. Calidris leucophæa. 8 inches.
These are a handsome and abundant species, found during migrations by thousands. On the coast it is one of the boldest of the shore birds, feeding on the edge of the outer beach, often under the combing crest of the incoming waves, retreating just as the wave breaks and is dashed to foam on the beach. They are usually very shy, and will not allow a close approach. Toes are short and stout; no hind toe. Adults in summer, variegated above with bright reddish brown and black. In winter, plain grayish above and white below.
Nest.—The three or four greenish buff eggs, spotted and blotched with brown, are laid in nests that differ but little from others of this family (1.45 × .90).
Range.—Found in all parts of North America, breeding within the Arctic Circle, and wintering to southern California.