Stilt Sandpiper
NameStilt Sandpiper
Common NameStilt Sandpiper
Scientific NameCalidris himantopus
FamilyScolopacidae
Wingspan (cm)45
Length (cm)20.5
Weight (g)67.5
Plumage DetailsIn breeding plumage, adults have a rufous cap, a prominent white supercilium, dark brown streaked upperparts, and heavily barred dark brown on white underparts. Non-breeding birds (like the one pictured) are duller, with grayish-brown upperparts, a distinct white supercilium, and mostly white underparts with faint streaking on the breast.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a soft, reedy 'too-it' or 'whu-u' call, often given in flight.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatswetland, tundra
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds in the Arctic tundra of North America. Migrates through the central and eastern United States and winters primarily in South America, particularly in southern Brazil, Paraguay, Bolivia, and northern Argentina.
Identifying Featureslong yellowish-green legs, long slightly decurved bill, prominent white supercilium, barred underparts (breeding plumage)
Description
The Stilt Sandpiper is a medium-sized shorebird characterized by its unusually long yellowish-green legs and a long, slightly decurved bill. It typically forages by probing in shallow water for aquatic invertebrates, often wading belly-deep.
