Spotted Redshank
Image: Nelson Conceição (cc-by-nc)
NameSpotted Redshank
Common NameSpotted Redshank
Scientific NameTringa erythropus
FamilyScolopacidae
Wingspan (cm)64
Length (cm)31
Weight (g)170
Plumage DetailsIn breeding plumage, adults are striking sooty black with fine white spotting on the back and flanks, and bright red legs. Non-breeding birds (as seen in the image) are pale grey-brown above, whitish below, with a prominent white supercilium and duller reddish-orange legs. The bill is long, slender, slightly upturned, dark with a reddish base.
Vocalization / CallIts call is a clear, whistling 'tew-ee' or 'chu-it', often given in flight. It also has a rapid 'chip-chip-chip' alarm call.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatscoastal mudflats, estuaries, saltmarshes, freshwater marshes, flooded fields, tundra
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across the taiga and tundra zones of northern Eurasia. Winters extensively in coastal areas and wetlands from western Europe and Africa, south through the Middle East to Southeast Asia and Australia.
Identifying FeaturesLong, slender, slightly upturned bill with a reddish base (especially in non-breeding), Long legs, bright red in breeding plumage, duller reddish-orange in non-breeding, Prominent white supercilium in non-breeding plumage, Sooty black plumage with white spots in breeding season, White rump and barred tail visible in flight, Elegant, upright posture
Description
The Spotted Redshank is an elegant, medium-sized wader known for its long, slender bill and distinctive plumage changes between seasons. It actively forages in shallow waters, probing for invertebrates with its bill.
