How does the Whimbrel primarily detect invertebrate prey buried in sediment?
Answer
Via numerous nerve endings at the bill tip providing a sense of touch
The tip of the bill contains numerous nerve endings, granting the bird a sense of touch crucial for detecting hidden prey even when visibility is zero.
Related Questions
What is the defining characteristic of the Whimbrel's bill structure?How does the Whimbrel primarily detect invertebrate prey buried in sediment?What specialized role does the Whimbrel's bill take on during subterranean hunting?In certain tropical wintering areas, what percentage can small crabs constitute of the Whimbrel's diet?What types of food primarily constitute the Whimbrel's diet when foraging in non-coastal, inland areas?What nutritional benefit do berries like crowberries or blueberries provide the migrating Whimbrel?What is an advantage gained by Whimbrels feeding in a social group?When are Whimbrels most intensely focused on feeding in coastal areas during the non-breeding season?Which foraging technique is commonly employed by Whimbrels when feeding on firmer sand flats?What specific advantage does the Whimbrel's specialized bill length give it compared to shorter-billed sandpipers?