Eurasian Whimbrel (كروان الماء الصغير) \ Numenius phaeopus **

The Eurasian Whimbrel (Numenius phaeopus) is a medium-sized wader belonging to the sandpiper family. It is recognized by its distinctive down-curved bill, which is shorter than that of its close relative, the curlew. The whimbrel's plumage is generally mottled brown with a striking crown pattern marked by a dark central stripe bordered by two lighter stripes. This migratory bird breeds in the Arctic regions of Europe and Asia, typically favoring open tundra habitats. During migration and winter, it can be found along coastlines, mudflats, and estuaries across Europe, Africa, and South Asia. The whimbrel's diet primarily consists of small invertebrates, such as crustaceans and worms, which it deftly extracts from the mud using its specialized bill. The Eurasian Whimbrel is noted for its distinctive, fluting call, often heard during flight.