The common sandpiper is a small, migratory wading bird known for its distinctive teetering, bobbing motion. It has grey-brown upperparts, white underparts, and a stiff-winged flight. They feed on insects and other invertebrates, primarily near freshwater like rivers and lakes, though they also use coastal areas.
Identification and physical characteristics
Appearance: Grey-brown on top and white underneath, with grey-green legs and a dark grey bill that is yellow at the base.
Size: Measures about 19-21 cm (7-8 inches) long, with a wingspan of 32-35 cm (12.5-13.5 inches).
Distinguishing features: In flight, they show a white fringe on their wings, and they have a characteristic "teetering" bob when standing.
Habitat and behavior
Habitat: Breeds along fast-moving rivers and near lakes, but also found in coastal wetlands and estuaries during migration.
Diet: Feeds on small insects, worms, and other invertebrates.
Behavior: They are solitary birds outside of migration and are known for their distinctive, stiff-winged flight and the bobbing motion they make while standing. They also use a "broken-wing" display to lure predators away from their nests.
Migration and distribution
Migration: A migratory species that breeds in Europe and Asia.
Wintering grounds: Migrates to wintering grounds in southern Africa, India, and Australasia.
Passage migrants: Can be seen at freshwater lakes or estuaries during their spring and autumn migration.
Conservation status
Conservation status: Classified as "Amber" on the Birds of Conservation Concern 5 list in the UK, indicating a medium conservation concern, notes Suffolk Wildlife Trust.
