Terek Sandpiper
NameTerek Sandpiper
Common NameTerek Sandpiper
Scientific NameXenus cinereus
FamilyScolopacidae
Wingspan (cm)57.5
Length (cm)23.5
Weight (g)90
Plumage DetailsAdults in breeding plumage have grey-brown upperparts with dark streaking on the back and crown, and a prominent white supercilium. The underparts are pure white. Non-breeding plumage is plainer grey-brown above. Legs are typically yellowish-orange.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalization is a distinctive, rapid, trilling 'tew-tew-tew' or 'wit-wit-wit' call, often given in flight or when disturbed.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatscoastal, wetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across northern Eurasia, from Finland eastward through Siberia. It undertakes long migrations, wintering on coastal areas from East Africa, through South Asia, to Australia.
Identifying FeaturesLong, strongly upturned black bill, Yellowish-orange legs, Grey-brown upperparts and white underparts, Active foraging style with rapid probing
Description
The Terek Sandpiper is a medium-sized wader known for its distinctive long, strongly upturned bill. It actively forages in shallow water, often with a characteristic sewing-machine-like probing action.
