dunlin

Short definition: The word dunlin refers to a small sandpiper commonly found on mudflats and tidal areas, known for its drooping bill, dense flocks, and long migrations between Arctic breeding grounds and southern coasts.

Looking for a clear and natural explanation of the word dunlin? The word dunlin is mainly used in birdwatching, wildlife studies, and coastal nature writing. It refers to a small widespread shorebird commonly seen feeding in large flocks on mudflats and beaches. You will hear it in discussions about wetlands, estuaries, tidal flats, and long seasonal migrations. Although not common in everyday conversation, it appears often in field guides and birding reports. Below, each meaning is explained in a calm and natural way, with enough detail to feel clear, human, and informative.

Forms: dunlin, dunlins
Related: shorebird n., sandpiper n., wader n.
Syllable: dun-lin

1. (Noun) A small migratory shorebird with a slightly downcurved bill often found feeding on mudflats and coastal wetlands.

   A dunlin is a small sandpiper known for its compact body slightly curved bill and habit of feeding in large flocks, commonly seen probing soft mud and shallow water for insects worms and tiny crustaceans in estuaries tidal flats and marshes.

   The dunlin moved quickly across the exposed mudflat probing the surface repeatedly as the tide slowly receded in the early morning light.
   Birdwatchers watched hundreds of dunlins rise into the air together forming a shifting cloud above the wetland.
   During winter dunlins are often the most numerous shorebirds seen along coastal mudflats.

   Synonyms: shorebird, sandpiper, wading bird, small wader, migratory shorebird, mudflat bird, coastal feeder, probing bird, tidal flat species, wetland bird, flocking shorebird, marsh bird
   Antonyms: forest bird, tree dwelling bird, domestic bird, flightless bird, inland land bird, raptor, seed eating bird, woodland species, urban bird, non migratory bird, ground running bird, landlocked species

2. (Noun) A shorebird famous for flying in dense coordinated flocks that change shape rapidly.

   Dunlins are also well known for their spectacular flocking behavior, where large groups fly tightly together and shift direction in unison, creating dramatic visual patterns that help protect them from predators.

   The dunlins formed a fast moving cloud that twisted and turned above the shoreline as a hawk passed overhead.
   Watching a flock of dunlins change shape in midair is one of the highlights of winter birding.
   Scientists study dunlin flocking behavior to better understand group movement and predator avoidance.

   Synonyms: flocking shorebird, coordinated flyer, group flying bird, mass movement species, defensive flock bird, synchronized flier, collective behavior example, predator avoiding species, aerial display bird, movement study species, migratory flock bird, teamwork flyer
   Antonyms: solitary bird, lone feeder, non flocking species, isolated animal, independent flyer, single forager, territorial solo bird, non social species, individual hunter, solitary wildlife, lone migrant, independent species