Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus

The Whimbrel breeds in sub-Arctic Eurasia and North America and migrates south for the winter, so can be seen on any continent except Antarctica.

The Whimbrel is smaller than a (Eurasian) Curlew and has a centre parting on its head.

It is a coastal bird eating mainly crustaceans, small invertebrates and small fish

This unluckly whimbrel has become tangled in a fishing line discarded by a selfish angler. (A turnstone was caught up in a discarded bait hook and line on the same coast -- see Turnstone page).