Spotted Redshank
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NameSpotted Redshank
Common NameSpotted Redshank
Scientific NameTringa erythropus
FamilyScolopacidae
Wingspan (cm)64
Length (cm)31
Weight (g)155
Plumage DetailsIn non-breeding plumage (as pictured), the upperparts are grey-brown with fine white spotting and streaking, contrasting with clean white underparts. It has a pale supercilium and a dark bill with a reddish base, particularly on the lower mandible. Breeding plumage is distinctive, being almost entirely sooty black with fine white spotting on the back and flanks.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a clear, fluty 'tew-tew-tew' call, often given in flight, and a sharper 'chip' note.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatscoastal lagoons, estuaries, mudflats, saltmarshes, freshwater marshes, flooded fields, shallow wetlands
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across northern Eurasia, from Scandinavia eastward through Siberia. It winters in coastal areas of western Europe, Africa, the Middle East, India, Southeast Asia, and Australia.
Identifying FeaturesLong, slender, slightly upturned bill with reddish base (especially lower mandible) in non-breeding plumage, Bright orange-red legs, Grey-brown upperparts and white underparts in non-breeding plumage, Sooty black breeding plumage, White wedge on the back visible in flight
Description
The Spotted Redshank is a medium-sized wader characterized by its long legs and slender bill. It typically forages in shallow water, probing for invertebrates. In non-breeding plumage, it appears grey-brown above and white below, while breeding birds are strikingly dark.
