Spoon-billed Sandpiper
Image: Sittichai Nanthanasit (cc-by-nc)
NameSpoon-billed Sandpiper
Common NameSpoon-billed Sandpiper
Scientific NameCalidris pygmaea
FamilyScolopacidae
Wingspan (cm)31.5
Length (cm)15
Weight (g)33
Plumage DetailsIn breeding plumage, adults have a rufous head, neck, and breast with dark streaking, and dark brown upperparts with rufous fringes. Non-breeding birds (like the one pictured) have pale grey-brown upperparts, a white belly, and a pale supercilium. Juveniles resemble non-breeding adults but with scaly upperparts.
Vocalization / CallTypically gives a soft, low 'peep' or 'preep' call, often heard during flight or when disturbed. It also produces a short, trilling song during the breeding season.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatscoastal wetlands, mudflats, estuaries, tundra
Conservation Statuscritically-endangered
Geographic RangeBreeds in the Arctic tundra of northeastern Siberia (Chukotka and Kamchatka Peninsulas). Winters along coastal mudflats and estuaries in Southeast Asia, including Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, and China.
Identifying Featuresspatulate bill, small size, short legs, rapid feeding action
Description
A small, distinctive wader known for its unique spatulate (spoon-shaped) bill, which it uses to sweep through shallow water and mud to find prey. This critically endangered species breeds in the Arctic tundra and winters on coastal mudflats in Southeast Asia.
