The exposed mudflats on tidal wetlands attract a variety of shorebirds. Shorebirds are seasonal residents that make long migratory journeys between their breeding grounds in the Arctic and their wintering areas in South America. Merritt Island NWR provides an important resting and feeding area for this group of birds. Some stay for the winter, and others use the refuge as a fuel stop before continuing on their journey.
In tidal areas, shorebird feeding schedules are influenced by the cycle of the tides. Changes in tidal cycles expose foraging areas in mudflats for a period during the day. At other points during the cycle, the water in these same areas becomes too deep or the ground too dry for shorebirds to feed effectively.
Shorebirds of different species can and do forage together. Because bill length and shape varies from species to species, birds can pursue different prey in the same area at the same time without competing with each other. Because of varying bill lengths, the different bird species find their food at different depths in the substrate. Mixed species of shorebirds are a common sight.
Reference: the text of this blog was transcribed from signage along the Blackpoint Wildlife Drive of Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, Brevard County, Florida
Michael Stephen Wills Photography 
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Thank you, Orededrum!
Your green heart speaks volumes, and I’m delighted to see that “Tidal Wetlands” resonated with you.
Your support means a lot to me! 💚
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Michael, beautiful photos; the wetlands look ethereal and seem to stretch on forever! Thank you so much for including information about them.
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It is inspiring the Federal Government combined nature with space exploration.
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Thank you so much, Annika!
I’m really glad you enjoyed the photos and found the wetlands as captivating as I do. It’s a pleasure to share not just the beauty but also a bit of knowledge about these remarkable ecosystems. Your appreciation truly encourages me to keep exploring and sharing.
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Hi, Mike! Happy Monday!
I learned so much about shorebirds today! The wetlands photo is amazing!
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We have the Montezuma wetlands locally, in the Finger Lakes. I am considering driving about an hour north on April 8th to catch the Total Solar Eclipse.
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I never heard of shorebirds, so I can say I learned something today. 🙂 Thanks for that.
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I’m thrilled to hear that, NonSmokingLadyBug!
It’s wonderful to know that I could introduce you to something new about our natural world. Shorebirds are indeed fascinating, and I’m so happy to have sparked a bit of curiosity and learning.
Thank you for your comment, and I hope you find even more to explore and learn about in the future. 🙂
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