About the White-rumped Sandpiper
The white-rumped sandpiper is a small migratory shorebird that breeds in the northern tundra of Canada and Alaska. This bird can be difficult to distinguish from other similar tiny shorebirds; these are known collectively as "peeps" or "stints". In flight, it is more easily picked out by its namesake white rump.
Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
ID tip
The white-rumped sandpiper is a relatively small bird measuring only 15–18 cm (5.9–7.1 in), with a wingspan of 36–38 cm (14–15 in). The top of its body is a dull grey-brown colour and it has a white eye stripe. Its beak is of medium length, thin and dark, and its legs are very dark. This bird is often mistaken with many similar-looking sandpipers that live in its range or along its migration path. The plumage is much less distinct during the winter; however, during all seasons males and females remain similar in their appearance. Voice: One of the white-rumped sandpiper vocalizations consists of a repeating "pip, pip, pip …" Their call has a distinctive metallic "tzeep" note which makes them easily identifiable among a flock of shorebirds. It resembles the sound of two pebbles scraping against one another.
Text from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
Where it lives
Recorded as a rare visitor in France, Belgium, Netherlands, Germany, Japan, Finland, Switzerland, Namibia, St. Barthélemy.
When to see it
Peak activity in May · a summer visitor species across most of its range
Easily confused with
Temminck's StintCalidris temminckiiThese birds are very small waders, at 13.5–15 cm (5.3–5.9 in) length.
Purple SandpiperCalidris maritimaAdults have short yellow legs and a medium thin dark bill with a yellow base.
Baird's SandpiperCalidris bairdiiAdults have black legs and a short, straight, thin dark bill.
Side by side: Stilt Sandpiper vs White-rumped Sandpiper · Baird's Sandpiper vs White-rumped Sandpiper · Temminck's Stint vs White-rumped Sandpiper · Purple Sandpiper vs White-rumped Sandpiper
Learn the White-rumped Sandpiper for real
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