Marbled Godwit
NameMarbled Godwit
Common NameMarbled Godwit
Scientific NameLimosa fedoa
FamilyScolopacidae
Wingspan (cm)75
Length (cm)45
Weight (g)350
Plumage DetailsOverall sandy-buff to cinnamon plumage, heavily barred and mottled with dark brown on the back, wings, and flanks. The underparts are paler, often plain buff. The long bill is pinkish at the base, transitioning to dark at the tip, and has a noticeable upward curve.
Vocalization / CallTypically a series of loud, clear, often repeated 'god-wit' or 'rad-it' calls, especially when alarmed or in flight. They also produce a variety of clucking and chattering sounds.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatswetland, coastal, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds in the prairies of central North America, including the Great Plains of the U.S. and Canada. Winters along the coasts of the southern United States, Mexico, and Central America.
Identifying Featureslong, slightly upturned bill, pinkish bill base with dark tip, mottled brown and buff plumage, long dark legs, large shorebird size
Description
The Marbled Godwit is a large, long-legged shorebird characterized by its distinctive long, slightly upturned bill. Its mottled brown and buff plumage provides excellent camouflage in its wetland and coastal habitats. This species forages by probing its bill deep into mud or sand to find invertebrates.
