Pectoral Sandpiper

Calidris melanotos

Family: Sandpipers and Allies · Status: Vagrant · Size: 19–23 cm · Conservation: Least Concern

Range

Breeds across arctic tundra in northern Russia, Alaska, and northern Canada, wintering mainly in southern South America and Oceania.

Identification

A medium-sized sandpiper, recalls Sharp-tailed Sandpiper, but differs from that species by sharply-demarcated white belly (clearly contrasting with brown patterning on breast), clean flanks, colder (less red) tones on crown, and usually pale-based bill. From the smaller Long-toed Stint, told by stockier and taller appearance, and thicker bill. Wood Sandpiper is thinner-billed and slimmer.

Habitat

Flooded grasslands, freshwater wetlands, and marshes; usually forages among vegetation rather than on open mudflats.

Behaviour

Walks slowly and leisurely while feeding, unlike most smaller waders.