1. Insects: Curlews are voracious insect eaters and consume various insects, such as beetles, grasshoppers, crickets, flies, wasps, and ants.
2. Earthworms: They probe the ground with their long, curved bills to dig for earthworms, which form a significant part of their diet.
3. Aquatic Invertebrates: Curlews feed on aquatic insects, such as water bugs, snails, and crustaceans (e.g., shrimp and amphipods) found along shorelines and in shallow waters.
4. Polychaetes: Along coastal areas, they may also feed on polychaetes, commonly known as marine worms.
5. Small Vertebrates: Curlews will opportunistically prey on small vertebrates, including frogs, lizards, and small fish found in their wetland habitats.
6. Seeds and Vegetation: During certain seasons, they may supplement their diet with seeds, berries, and other plant matter. However, these are not primary food sources.
It's worth noting that the specific diet of Long-billed Curlews can vary depending on their location, habitat type, and season. They are highly adaptable birds and have evolved to exploit the available food resources in different environments.