Bar-tailed Godwit
NameBar-tailed Godwit
Common NameBar-tailed Godwit
Scientific NameLimosa lapponica
FamilyScolopacidae
Wingspan (cm)76
Length (cm)39
Weight (g)295
Plumage DetailsIn breeding plumage, males have rich rufous-chestnut underparts, head, and neck, with dark brown and buff mottled upperparts. Females are similar but duller. Non-breeding birds are grayish-brown above and whitish below, with a distinctive barred tail visible in flight.
Vocalization / CallTypically a sharp 'kirruk' or 'kew-kew' call, often given in flight. During display, it may emit a trilling 'kree-kree-kree'.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatscoastal, wetland, tundra
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds in Arctic tundra across northern Eurasia and Alaska. Migrates to non-breeding grounds in coastal areas of Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand, undertaking the longest non-stop migratory flight of any bird.
Identifying Featureslong, slightly upturned bill, long dark legs, rich rufous breeding plumage (especially males), barred tail (visible in flight), distinctive 'kirruk' call
Description
A medium-sized shorebird known for its incredibly long migratory flights. It possesses a long, slightly upturned bill and long dark legs, foraging in coastal mudflats and estuaries.
