Spotted Sandpiper
NameSpotted Sandpiper
Common NameSpotted Sandpiper
Scientific NameActitis macularius
FamilyScolopacidae
Wingspan (cm)38.5
Length (cm)19
Weight (g)42
Plumage DetailsBreeding adults have a brown back with dark barring, a white belly heavily marked with distinct black spots, and a white supercilium. The bill is orange with a dark tip. Non-breeding birds lack the spots and have a plainer brown breast.
Vocalization / CallA sharp, high-pitched 'peet-weet' or 'weet-weet-weet' call, often given in flight or when disturbed.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatswetland, coastal, forest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across most of Canada and the United States, migrating south to the southern U.S., Central America, South America, and the Caribbean for winter.
Identifying FeaturesConstant tail-bobbing or 'teetering' motion, Distinctive black spots on white underparts (breeding plumage), Orange bill with a dark tip, White supercilium
Description
The Spotted Sandpiper is a small, active shorebird known for its distinctive tail-bobbing behavior. In breeding plumage, it features prominent dark spots on its white underparts, making it easily identifiable among other sandpipers.
