Broad-billed Sandpiper
NameBroad-billed Sandpiper
Common NameBroad-billed Sandpiper
Scientific NameCalidris falcinellus
FamilyScolopacidae
Wingspan (cm)35.5
Length (cm)17
Weight (g)45
Plumage DetailsIn breeding plumage, the upperparts are dark brown with rufous and pale buff feather fringes, creating a streaked and scaly pattern. The underparts are white, with streaking on the breast and flanks. A distinctive double supercilium (pale stripe above and below the eye, meeting at the bill base) is a key feature. Non-breeding plumage is duller, grayer-brown above with less distinct streaking.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a dry, trilling 'prrrip' or 'churr-ip', often given in flight. It also produces a soft 'whit' or 'twick' call.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatswetland, coastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThis species breeds in northern Europe and Siberia. It undertakes long migrations to winter in coastal areas stretching from East Africa, across the Middle East, to South and Southeast Asia, and Australia.
Identifying Featureslong, slightly downcurved bill, distinctive double supercilium, streaked breast and flanks, stocky build
Description
The Broad-billed Sandpiper is a small, stocky wader characterized by its distinctive long, slightly downcurved bill and a prominent double supercilium. It typically forages in shallow wetlands and coastal mudflats, probing for small invertebrates.
