The Ruff (Calidris pugnax) is a medium-sized wading bird characterized by dramatic male plumage during breeding season and unique courtship displays.
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Ecology & Habitat
Habitat
Breeds in wet grasslands, marshes, and tundra regions of northern Europe and Asia; migrates to wetlands, coastal areas, and inland water bodies in Africa and southern Eurasia during winter
Ecological Role
Plays critical role in wetland ecosystems as seed disperser and insect predator; indicator species for grassland and wetland habitat health
Morphology
SKIN COATMottled brown and gray plumage, distinctive ornamental neck feathers in males during breeding season
LIMBS WINGSLong legs for wading, pointed wings for efficient long-distance migration
HEAD SENSORYLarge eyes, short bill adapted for probing soft substrates, excellent visual acuity
BODY STRUCTUREMedium-sized wader, body length 26-32 cm, wingspan 54-68 cm, weight 180-380 g
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: T. R. Shankar Raman
