The Dunlin (Calidris alpina) is a small, stocky shorebird found across the globe, known for its distinctive seasonal plumage. In summer, adults display a striking combination of rust-colored upperparts and a distinctive black belly patch, which helps differentiate them from other waders. In winter, their plumage turns grayish, blending seamlessly with coastal environments. They inhabit wetlands, estuaries, and tidal mudflats, where they forage for invertebrates like worms and crustaceans, often probing the soft substrate with their slightly decurved bill.

The Dunlin is highly migratory, breeding in the Arctic and subarctic regions and wintering along temperate and tropical coastlines. Their synchronized flock movements, especially during migration, are a mesmerizing sight. These birds play a critical role in wetland ecosystems by aiding nutrient cycling. Conservation efforts for Dunlins focus on protecting their migratory stopovers and wintering habitats, which are increasingly threatened by habitat loss and climate change.