Black-tailed Godwit
NameBlack-tailed Godwit
Common NameBlack-tailed Godwit
Scientific NameLimosa limosa
FamilyScolopacidae
Wingspan (cm)68.5
Length (cm)42
Weight (g)390
Plumage DetailsIn breeding plumage, the head, neck, and breast are a rich reddish-brown, often streaked with darker markings on the crown. The upperparts are mottled dark brown and rufous, while the belly is white with variable dark barring. The long, straight bill is pinkish-orange at the base and dark at the tip. Non-breeding plumage is duller, predominantly grey-brown.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a loud, far-carrying 'grutto grutto' or 'wit-wit-wit' call, often given in flight or when alarmed.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatswetland, grassland, coastal
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeBreeds across temperate Eurasia, from Iceland and Western Europe eastward to Central Asia. It undertakes long-distance migrations, wintering in Western and Southern Europe, Africa, the Middle East, India, Southeast Asia, and Australia.
Identifying FeaturesLong, straight, bicolored bill (pinkish-orange base, dark tip), Very long dark legs, Reddish-brown head, neck, and breast in breeding plumage, Prominent white wing bar visible in flight, Black tail with a white base, visible in flight
Description
The Black-tailed Godwit is a large, long-legged wader with a distinctive long, straight bill. In breeding plumage, it displays rich reddish-brown coloration on its head, neck, and breast, contrasting with its mottled dark back and white belly. It typically probes in shallow water or wet ground for invertebrates.
