Spotted Redshank
NameSpotted Redshank
Common NameSpotted Redshank
Scientific NameTringa erythropus
FamilyScolopacidae
Wingspan (cm)64
Length (cm)31
Weight (g)170
Plumage DetailsIn non-breeding plumage (as seen in the image), the Spotted Redshank is grey-brown above with fine white spotting, and white below. It has a prominent white supercilium. The long, slender bill is dark with a reddish base, and the legs are reddish. Breeding plumage is largely blackish with white spotting on the back and flanks.
Vocalization / CallIts call is a distinctive, clear 'chew-it' or 'tew-it', often given in flight. It also has a trilling alarm call.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatswetlands, marshes, mudflats, coastal lagoons, tundra
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across the taiga and tundra zones of northern Eurasia, from Scandinavia to eastern Siberia. It migrates south to winter in coastal areas of Europe, Africa, and Asia.
Identifying Featureslong, slender, slightly upturned bill with reddish base (non-breeding), reddish legs, mottled grey-brown upperparts and white underparts (non-breeding), dark, spotted plumage (breeding), prominent white supercilium (non-breeding), white rump visible in flight
Description
The Spotted Redshank is a medium-sized migratory wader known for its elegant appearance and long, slender bill. Its plumage undergoes a striking transformation between breeding and non-breeding seasons, from dark and spotted to paler grey-brown.
