Common Sandpiper
NameCommon Sandpiper
Common NameCommon Sandpiper
Scientific NameActitis hypoleucos
FamilyScolopacidae
Wingspan (cm)35
Length (cm)19
Weight (g)50
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are dull brownish-grey with fine barring, contrasting sharply with clean white underparts. A prominent white wedge extends from the breast up onto the shoulder, visible even when the wings are folded. It has a faint supercilium and a dark eye-stripe.
Vocalization / CallA high-pitched, piping 'swee-swee-swee' or 'twee-wee-wee' call, often given in flight or when disturbed.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatswetland, coastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across most of temperate Europe and Asia, migrating south to Africa, southern Asia, and Australia for the non-breeding season.
Identifying Featuresconstant tail-bobbing, white wedge on shoulder, brownish-grey upperparts, white underparts, stiff, bowed-wing flight, short, dark bill, yellowish-grey legs
Description
A small, active wader often seen along the edges of freshwater bodies, characterized by its constant tail-bobbing behavior. It has a distinctive flight pattern with stiff, bowed wings.
