photo by Phil Swanson

Calidris fuscicollis
L 7 1/2″ (19 cm).

Song or calls:
High-pitched “jeet,” insectlike.

Description: Sexes similar. Wing tips extend beyond tip of tail. Short, straight black bill. Breeding plumage is gray-brown above; white below. White rump. White breast has heavy brown streaking that extends down flanks. Winter plumage shows dark gray head and neck, white below. Juveniles show rusty crown and back.

Habitat: Migrants can be found feeding in shallow ponds, flooded pastures, flat shorelines, and muddy creeks.

Where in Nebraska: Common and occasionally abundant spring migrant across the state. Migrates off Atlantic Coast in fall and documented fall records are few. Spring migration often extends into the first third of June.

Field Notes: Often found with other peeps.

Fun Facts: White-rumped Sandpiper have the longest migration route of any American bird traveling from arctic Canada to southern South America, travel which takes about a month and twice a year.

 
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