Back to the top . The only similar species one may see is the curlew sandpiper, which has a longer more curved beak and is bigger, with longer legs. Dunlin are only 16-20 cm in length. Upper parts vary in colour from brown to almost russet. Back to the top .
Dunlins mostly nest on high ground, usually peat moorland, although some breed on estuarine marshes.
A few pairs breed on Dartmoor, the southernmost edge of their global breeding range. Large flocks gather at Point Air , along the Severn Estuary , and the Exe Estuary during winter, but small flocks can be seen at many coastal sites. The best inland site for dunlin is Rutland Water , in particular the Egleton Reserve. Back to the top . The Red Data Birds guide estimated 9150 pairs.