Short-billed Dowitcher
NameShort-billed Dowitcher
Common NameShort-billed Dowitcher
Scientific NameLimnodromus griseus
FamilyScolopacidae
Wingspan (cm)50
Length (cm)26
Weight (g)115
Plumage DetailsBreeding adults exhibit reddish-brown underparts, particularly on the breast and flanks, often with dark barring. The upperparts are mottled dark brown and black with rufous feather edges, giving a scaly appearance. The head and neck are streaked, and a pale supercilium is present. Non-breeding plumage is duller, predominantly gray. The bill is long and dark, and legs are greenish-yellow.
Vocalization / CallIts typical call is a soft, rapid 'tu-tu-tu' or 'kip-kip-kip', often described as a series of short, whistled notes.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatswetland, coastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds in northern North America (Alaska and Canada). It migrates through the contiguous United States and winters along the coasts of the southern U.S., Central America, and northern South America.
Identifying Featuresvery long, straight bill, reddish-brown underparts (breeding plumage), mottled dark upperparts, sewing-machine feeding motion, greenish-yellow legs
Description
The Short-billed Dowitcher is a medium-sized shorebird characterized by its exceptionally long, straight bill, which it uses to probe for invertebrates in mud and shallow water. In breeding plumage, it displays striking reddish-brown underparts and mottled dark upperparts. It is often found in coastal wetlands and estuaries during migration and winter.
