Sharp-tailed Sandpiper
NameSharp-tailed Sandpiper
Common NameSharp-tailed Sandpiper
Scientific NameCalidris acuminata
FamilyScolopacidae
Wingspan (cm)38
Length (cm)19.5
Weight (g)53.5
Plumage DetailsAdults have a prominent rufous-brown cap, a pale supercilium, and a heavily streaked breast that sharply contrasts with a clean white belly. The back and wings are mottled brown with pale feather edges, creating a scaly appearance. Juveniles and non-breeding birds are duller but retain the capped head and streaked breast pattern.
Vocalization / CallIts typical call is a soft, reedy 'whit' or 'krip', sometimes given as a trilling 'trrr-it' during flight or alarm.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatswetland, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds in the Arctic tundra of Siberia. Migrates extensively through East Asia, Southeast Asia, and Australasia, with occasional vagrants recorded in North America and Europe.
Identifying Featuresrufous-brown cap, streaked breast contrasting with white belly, scaly-patterned back, pale supercilium, medium-length dark bill, yellowish-green legs
Description
A medium-sized sandpiper characterized by its distinctive rufous-brown cap and heavily streaked breast. It typically forages in shallow freshwater wetlands and muddy edges, often with a somewhat hunched posture.
