Birds of Singapore
by the Bird Society of Singapore
Tringa erythropus
Family: Sandpipers and Allies · Status: Vagrant · Size: 29–32 cm · Conservation: Least Concern
Breeds in the Northern Palearctic from central Europe to eastern Siberia; winters in tropical Africa through the Middle East and Indian Subcontinent to Indochina.
A medium-sized wader with bright red legs. In non-breeding plumage, similar to Common Redshank, but with brighter red legs and a thinner, longer bill with a more distinct red base on the lower mandible; lacks white trailing edge on wings in flight. Breeding plumage (unexpected in Singapore): all black with white spots on upperparts. Grey-tailed Tattler has yellow (not red) legs; Terek Sandpiper may show orange legs but has an upturned bill.
Mudflats, sandflats and freshwater marshes.
Gregarious; often swims while feeding in deep water, sometimes immersing head and neck completely.