The Sanderling (Calidris alba) is a small wader. It is a circumpolar arctic breeder, a long-distance migrant, wintering in South America, Europe, Africa and Australia. It is highly gregarious in winter, sometimes forming large flocks on mudflats or sandy beaches. The Sanderling's winter plumage is very pale, almost white apart from a dark shoulder patch. This is the source of its specific name, 'alba', which in Latin means 'white'. Monterey Shoreline, Monterey, California.