Dunlins typically live from 21 years and 7 months to 36 years, although the maximum recorded lifespan is 28 years and 10 months, with a theoretical lifespan ranging from 5 years to 31 years. The embryo develops inside an egg and does not feed itself. A dunlin chick hatches covered in down, quickly leaves the nest, and follows its parents; this stage lasts from 1 day to 1 month. The species reaches sexual maturity from 1 month and 3 weeks to 2 years and 2 months. A chick’s eyes open at birth. An adult bird is capable of reproduction, migrates long distances, and possesses a full set of feathers, with the adult stage lasting from 1 to 9 years.