How to Identify Sandpipers
If you have ever been digging for clams in a marsh, crabbing in a bay or taking a leisurely swim in a local lake or pond, then maybe you have seen a Sandpiper. These birds are common and widespread near shorelines and other water sources throughout North America. Next time you are at the beach or the local stream, you may even be able to identify one of these birds for yourself.
- Difficulty:
- Moderate
Instructions
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1
Identify the habitats of Sandpipers. There are many different types of Sandpipers, but they are all shorebirds living near coastlines, streams, ponds or lakes. Look for the most common type of Sandpiper, the Spotted Sandpiper, near sheltered water sources in North America.
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2
Observe the appearance of a Sandpiper. Most Sandpipers are a combination of brown, white, black or gray. The Spotted Sandpiper is brown and white, with a brown back and white and larger brown spots on the under side. The Spotted Sandpiper's wings are tapered and you can see a white stripe when they fly. The Spotted Sandpiper's bill is medium sized and dagger shaped. The tail is short and squared and is dark in color. Their legs are a dull yellow color.
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3
Observe the size of the Spotted Sandpiper. Spotted Sandpipers are medium sized shorebirds, measuring between 18 and 20 cm in length. They weigh approximately 34 to 50 g, and have a wingspan of 37 to 40 cm. Female Spotted Sandpipers are slightly larger than males.
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4
Listen to the call of the Spotted Sandpiper, that sounds like a shrill, high pitched "weet."
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5
Pay attention to the behavior of the Spotted Sandpiper. It bobs its tail and rump up and down, and nods its head when it walks. The Spotted Sandpipers appear to to be constantly teetering. They fly rapidly, with stiff, fluttering wing movements. Spotted sandpipers are often observed being solitary birds.
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1
Tips & Warnings
There are many different varieties of Sandpipers, including the Solitary Sandpiper, the Common Sandpiper and the Upland Sandpiper. Refer to a field guide to differentiate between Sandpipers.
