Ruff

Calidris pugnax

Family: Sandpipers and Allies · Status: Vagrant · Size: M:29-32 cm, F:22-26 cm · Conservation: Least Concern

Range

Breeds across northern Europe to Siberia, wintering in southwestern Europe, Africa, the Middle East, Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, southern China, Japan, Southeast Asia, and Australia. A vagrant to Singapore.

Identification

In non-breeding plumage, separated from similarly sized waders (Common Redshank, Common Greenshank, Great Knot) by upright stance, longish neck, relatively small head, and shortish straight bill slightly down-curved at the tip, with usually orange to yellowish-green legs. Male significantly larger than female. Feathers tend to ruffle more easily in the wind than other waders.

Habitat

Marshes, grassy areas, coastal pools, and mudflats.

Behaviour

Feeds mostly by surface pecking but often wades in fairly deep water.