The
Hunakai or Sandlerling is a common winter
visitor, arriving in Hawaii by August. Their
Hawaiian name Hunakai means "sea foam". They
were given this name because of its habit of
chasing waves on the seashore. They leave for
their Arctic breeding grounds in April.
Standing
8 inches tall, their winter plumage is white
below and gray above, with dark shoulder
patches. When observed running along shores in
Hawaii, Hunakai may blend in with the sand. Its
breeding plumage, or feathers is very different
in color. Their feathers molt, and come in
rust-orange and gold. Their thin legs and bills
are black. From a distance, they are pale gray.
The
Hunakai's call is a short, sharp whistle.
