Temminck’s Stint (Calidris temminckii):

A Detailed Ecological and Biological Study

Temminck’s Stint (Calidris temminckii) is a small yet ecologically significant migratory shorebird belonging to the family Scolopacidae. Although modest in size, this species is renowned for its extensive transcontinental migrations and its strong association with freshwater wetland systems. Quiet, unobtrusive, and subtly patterned, Temminck’s Stint often escapes casual notice, yet it plays a meaningful role in the ecological functioning of wetlands across Eurasia and South Asia, including selected freshwater habitats of the Sundarbans region.

Taxonomy & Classification

Temminck’s Stint is classified under the order Charadriiformes and the family Scolopacidae, a diverse group comprising sandpipers, snipes, and allied waders. The genus Calidris includes several small-bodied shorebirds adapted to probing and surface-feeding in soft substrates. The species was named in honor of the eminent Dutch zoologist Coenraad Jacob Temminck, reflecting its early documentation within European ornithological studies. Genetic and morphological analyses firmly support its placement within Calidris.

Morphology & Field Identification

Temminck’s Stint is characterized by a compact body, relatively short dark legs, and a fine, straight bill designed for delicate probing. Its overall appearance is understated, dominated by earthy brown and gray tones that blend seamlessly with muddy or gravelly substrates. A key field mark is the white outer tail feathers, which become conspicuous during flight and aid in distinguishing it from other similar-sized stints.

Male Features

Males exhibit subtle changes during the breeding season, including slightly darker upperparts and faintly enhanced feather edging on the scapulars. Unlike many shorebirds, males do not develop striking ornamental plumage, relying instead on territory selection and nesting success for reproductive advantage.

Female Features

Females closely resemble males in size and coloration, though they often appear marginally paler. Sexual dimorphism is minimal, and differentiation between sexes is generally possible only through behavioral observation during the breeding period.

Size & Wingspan

Adults typically measure between 13 and 15 centimeters in length, with an average wingspan of approximately 34 to 36 centimeters. Their lightweight structure enables efficient energy use, a critical factor for long-distance migration.

Flight Characteristics

In flight, Temminck’s Stint demonstrates rapid, shallow wingbeats combined with brief gliding phases. The narrow, pointed wings provide agility and speed, while the flashing white outer tail feathers are visible when the bird takes off or changes direction.

Habitat & Distribution

Global Range

The breeding range extends across northern Europe and Asia, from Scandinavia through vast tracts of Siberia. During the non-breeding season, the species migrates southward to Africa, the Indian subcontinent, and parts of Southeast Asia. This extensive range reflects a high degree of ecological flexibility.

Preferred Habitat

Unlike many coastal sandpipers, Temminck’s Stint shows a marked preference for freshwater environments. It is commonly found along riverbanks, marsh edges, shallow pools, and inland wetlands, often avoiding open tidal mudflats.

Diet & Feeding Ecology

The diet consists primarily of small aquatic and semi-aquatic invertebrates, including insect larvae, small crustaceans, mollusks, and worms. Seasonal variation in prey availability influences local movements and habitat selection.

Foraging Technique

Foraging is deliberate and methodical. The bird walks slowly along the water’s edge, pecking rapidly at visible prey or probing shallow mud with its sensitive bill. This tactile feeding strategy is well suited to freshwater substrates.

Breeding & Reproduction

Breeding takes place during the short Arctic and sub-Arctic summer. The species typically produces a single brood, timed precisely to coincide with peak insect abundance, ensuring adequate food for rapidly growing chicks.

Nesting Sites

Nests are simple ground scrapes lined with fine vegetation and placed in well-concealed locations such as grassy tussocks or low shrub cover. This strategy provides protection from predators and environmental exposure.

Unique Adaptations & Behavioral Ecology

Speed & Agility

Despite its small size, Temminck’s Stint is highly agile. Quick foot movements and rapid takeoff responses allow it to evade predators efficiently in open wetland environments.

Camouflage and Nesting Strategy

The cryptic coloration of both adults and chicks closely matches surrounding substrates. This natural camouflage significantly reduces detection by predators, particularly during the vulnerable nesting period.

Social Behavior

The species is generally solitary or loosely social. While it may associate with mixed-species flocks during migration, it maintains individual foraging space and shows limited flock cohesion.

Occurrence & Seasonal Movement

In South Asia, Temminck’s Stint is primarily a winter visitor and passage migrant. Arrival typically follows the monsoon season, with birds departing again before the onset of extreme summer temperatures.

Preferred Habitat in the Sundarbans Region

Within the broader Sundarbans landscape, the species is most often observed along freshwater channels, ponds, and riverbanks bordering mangrove forests. These quieter microhabitats provide abundant prey and relative shelter from tidal disturbance.

Ecological Role

By regulating populations of aquatic invertebrates, Temminck’s Stint contributes to nutrient cycling and overall wetland health. Its presence is often regarded as an indicator of intact freshwater ecosystems.

Habitat Alteration

Wetland degradation, pollution, altered river flow, and drainage pose significant threats along migratory and wintering routes. Even localized habitat changes can disrupt feeding and resting opportunities essential for migration success.

Conservation Efforts

The species benefits from international migratory bird agreements and wetland conservation initiatives. Protection of freshwater habitats, long-term monitoring, and sustainable water management remain central to its continued survival.

Did You Know?

Temminck’s Stint is one of the few sandpipers that consistently prefers freshwater wetlands over coastal mudflats, a trait that strongly influences its global distribution and migration pathways.

External Reference

Further scientific and taxonomic information is available on Wikipedia:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Temminck%27s_stint