Wood Sandpiper
Tringa glareola
The Wood Sandpiper is a rare but regular migrant to Britain, typically seen during the spring and autumn migrations, often in freshwater and wetland environments. It is most commonly spotted in the northern and western parts of the country, particularly in Scotland and Ireland.
Field Identification Guide
Use these features to identify Wood Sandpiper in the field.
The Wood Sandpiper can be identified by its distinctive white eye-ring, brownish-grey back, and white underparts, as well as its long, greenish-yellow legs. Its relatively small size and long, straight bill also help to distinguish it from other similar species.
The Wood Sandpiper is smaller than a Starling, measuring around 18-20 cm in length, and is one of the smallest species of shank.
The male Wood Sandpiper has a brownish-grey back and wings, with a white belly and white underside to the tail, and its plumage remains relatively consistent throughout the year, with some variation in the intensity of the colours during the breeding season.
The female Wood Sandpiper is similar to the male, with no significant differences in plumage, although females may appear slightly duller in colour.
The Wood Sandpiper's call is a sharp, whistled " chiff-chiff-chiff" or "tu-tu-tu", often repeated in a series of three or four notes.
Wood Sandpipers are typically seen feeding in shallow water, probing for small invertebrates and insects with their long bills, and they have a distinctive, bobbing flight style, often flying low over the water with rapid, flicking wingbeats.
The Wood Sandpiper can be confused with the Common Sandpiper, but can be distinguished by its white eye-ring, longer legs, and more subdued colouration, as well as its preference for freshwater habitats.
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