Marsh Sandpiper

Tringa stagnatilis

Family: Sandpipers and Allies · Status: Rare migrant · Size: 22–25 cm · Conservation: Least Concern

Range

Breeds from eastern Europe to eastern Siberia and northeast China; winters in sub-Saharan Africa through the Indian Subcontinent and Southeast Asia.

Identification

A medium-sized wader with a distinctive pencil-thin bill and long legs. Like Common Greenshank, lightly spotted (breeding plumage) or clean white (non-breeding plumage) below, with greyish-brown upperparts and yellow legs. Differs from Common Greenshank by its thin and straight (rather than slightly upturned) bill; overall smaller-bodied and more elegant. White rump and back conspicuous in flight.

Habitat

Mudflats, sandflats, and brackish lagoons.

Behaviour

Joins flocks of other waders; often found with Common Greenshanks. Wades in shallow water, pecking from the water surface.