Wood Sandpiper
NameWood Sandpiper
Common NameWood Sandpiper
Scientific NameTringa glareola
FamilyScolopacidae
Wingspan (cm)58.5
Length (cm)19.5
Weight (g)58
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are dark brown with prominent white spotting and barring, particularly on the mantle and wings. The underparts are white, with fine streaking on the breast. It features a distinct white supercilium (eyebrow stripe) contrasting with a dark eye-stripe, and its legs are a striking yellowish-green.
Vocalization / CallIts typical call is a clear, high-pitched 'giff-giff-giff' or 'chip-chip-chip', often given while in flight.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatswetland, forest, tundra
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThe Wood Sandpiper breeds across northern Europe and Asia, from Scandinavia eastward through Siberia. It undertakes long migrations to winter in Africa, southern Asia, and Australia.
Identifying Featureslong yellowish-green legs, prominent white supercilium, dark brown upperparts with white spots, straight, relatively short bill, white underparts
Description
The Wood Sandpiper is a medium-sized wader characterized by its long yellowish-green legs and a relatively short, straight bill. It typically forages in shallow freshwater habitats, often wading deliberately to pick up aquatic invertebrates.
