What is a wader?
Q: What is a wader?
A: A wader is a common term in ornithology for birds which walk about in shallow water. They are also sometimes referred to as shore-birds and are members of the order Charadriiformes, which are water birds.
Q: Where do most waders live?
A: Most waders live in wetland or coastal environments.
Q: How do different species of waders feed without competing for food?
A: Different lengths of bills allow different species of waders to feed in the same habitat without direct competition for food. Many waders have sensitive nerve endings at the end of their bills which let them detect prey hidden in mud or soft soil.
Q: What is the smallest member of this group?
A: The smallest member of this group is the least sandpiper, small adults of which can weigh as little as 15.5 grams and measure just over 13 cm (5 inches).
Q: What is the largest species believed to be?
A: The largest species believed to be is the Far Eastern curlew, at about 63 cm (25 inches) and 860 grams (1.9 lb).
Q: What bird is considered to be heaviest among these species?
A: The beach thick-knee is considered to be heaviest among these species, weighing about 1 kg (2.2 lb).
Q: Are many Arctic and temperate region birds migratory?
A: Yes, many species of Arctic and temperate regions are strongly migratory, but tropical birds are often resident. Some of the Arctic species, such as little stints, are amongst the longest distance migrants, spending their non-breeding season in the southern hemisphere.
