Or at least I think that is a tiny squid. It was certainly a big catch for this little Sanderling (Calidris alba).

It is funny how birds can have things in common with people. This Sanderling was foraging in the receding surf with several other Sanderlings, until it caught this relative big catch. It didn't run away when it caught the smaller prey that all the sanderlings seemed to be finding, which looked like small eggs of some kind.

But when it found this squid, suddenly what I presume was the fear of having it stolen away caused the bird to take flight and scurry away from the other birds as quickly as possible. No doubt not wanting to share (or lose) this fine catch.

Location: Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, Va.