THE whimbrel (Numenius phaeopus) is a captivating bird species that visits the coastal areas of Shenzhen during its annual migration. This medium-sized bird has a particularly long, curved beak; its plumage is mottled brown, providing camouflage in its natural habitats. Its distinctively long neck and legs allow the bird to quickly wade through shallow waters. During flight, its spread wings reveal a striking pattern of black and white stripes.

Whimbrels are primarily found in coastal habitats, including mudflats, estuaries, marshes, and sandy beaches. They visit Shenzhen Bay Park’s coastline as a stopover site during their migration. They are often seen probing the sand or mud with their long beaks in search of prey.

Whimbrels have a varied diet, consisting mainly of invertebrates such as crabs, worms, mollusks, and insects. They also consume small fish, berries and seeds for variety.

Whimbrels typically breed in Arctic regions, such as the tundra. The female lays up to four eggs in a shallow nest on the ground. Both parents take turns incubating the eggs for about three weeks. The chicks are precocial, meaning they are relatively independent and can feed themselves shortly after hatching. The parents provide protection and guidance until the young birds are ready to embark on their first migration.

These birds undertake impressive long-distance journeys, traveling thousands of kilometers from their breeding grounds in the Arctic to their wintering sites. They use stopover sites like Shenzhen to rest and refuel before continuing their migration. The whimbrels’ migration is a testament to their remarkable navigational abilities and endurance.

Their feeding habits contribute to the balance of coastal ecosystems. As they forage for food, these birds help regulate populations of invertebrates, playing a crucial role in the balance of the food chain. Additionally, their feeding activities stir up the sediment, allowing for nutrient cycling and enhancing the productivity of the coastal habitats they visit.

Their migratory behavior contributes to the ecological connectivity between different regions, and their presence indicates the health of their Arctic breeding grounds and coastal wintering sites.