|
 |
| |
 |
|
Willet
Tringa semipalmata
|
| |
|
Fun Facts |
| |
|
• |
The willet is very territorial and will aggressively defend their nesting and feeding territory.
|
| |
|
• |
Willets nest on the ground, usually in well-hidden grassy habitats.
|
| |
|
|
|
|
| |
Description |
|
| |
The willet can be easily identified while flying because of the broad white bands on their blackish wings. The body is dark gray above and light underneath and the tail is white with a dark band at the end. They have gray legs and a long, straight, dark bill. The willet feeds by probing the mud for crabs, small mollusks, insects, and worms. These birds are common in mudflats, but can also be found on rocky shores and sandy beaches.
The Willet's population declined sharply due to hunting in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Their population has since increased, but they are still considered at risk, especially in light of continued habitat loss.
To learn more about the willet visit the Mudflats Room at the Aquarium.
|
|
|
