The Short-billed Dowitcher (Limnodromus griseus) is a medium-sized shorebird that breeds in the boreal forests of North America and migrates southwards to spend the winter along the Gulf of Mexico, the Caribbean, and South America. This species measures between 9 and 11 inches in length and weighs around 3.5 ounces, with a wingspan of approximately 20 inches.

The Short-billed Dowitcher is characterized by a short, straight bill that is approximately half the length of its head. The bird’s plumage varies depending on the season. During breeding season, the bird has a bright rust-colored breast, grayish-brown upperparts, and a white belly. In contrast, the non-breeding plumage is more muted, with grayish-brown feathers covering the bird’s entire body.

One of the most distinguishing field marks of the Short-billed Dowitcher is its habit of probing deeply into the mud with its bill, using it to detect invertebrates such as worms, insects, and crustaceans. The bird’s behavior is especially noticeable during migration, when flocks of dowitchers can be seen busily probing for food in shallow estuaries, mudflats, and freshwater wetlands.

The Short-billed Dowitcher is a long-distance migrant that travels thousands of miles each year between its breeding and wintering grounds. During the fall migration, the species travels from its breeding grounds in Alaska, Canada, and the northeastern United States to wintering areas in Central and South America. In the spring, the birds return northward to breed, following a similar route along the Atlantic and Pacific coasts of North America.

Conservationists are concerned about the ‘s population, which has declined significantly in recent years. Habitat loss, climate change, and pollution are among the factors contributing to the species’ decline. Efforts are underway to protect and restore the bird’s breeding and wintering habitats, as well as to reduce the use of pesticides and other pollutants that can harm the species and its food sources.