Habitat:
Beaches, coastal rocks, wetlands, and estuaries, mainly in cold North Atlantic regions, especially during migration

Activity period :
Primarily active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.

Identification and description:
The Purple Sandpiper is a small wader distinguished by its plumage, which features shades of gray, brown, and purple, especially visible during the breeding season. This small bird primarily inhabits the Arctic coasts of Europe and North America, feeding on small marine invertebrates, mainly crustaceans and mollusks, which it finds in the mud and sand of beaches. The Purple Sandpiper is a long-distance migrant, covering vast distances between its breeding grounds in the Arctic regions and its wintering areas in more temperate zones. The social behavior of the Purple Sandpiper is also noteworthy, often seen in large groups during migration. While this species is still relatively abundant, it can be affected by disturbance to its coastal habitats and climate change.

Recommended lens:
200 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
To photograph the purple sandpiper, a telephoto lens is ideal to capture its silhouette on beaches or rocks. Take photos early in the morning or at dusk, when the light is soft and ideal for sharp images. Be discreet and respect their space to avoid disturbing their natural behavior, especially when they are resting during migration.