Sandpipers, Phalaropes

Upland Sandpiper, Bartramia longicauda

Family Scolopacidae (Sandpipers, Phalaropes)

Size: 11.5"

Season: Summer

Habitat: Open fields, meadows

The upland sandpiper is closely related to the curlews, yet in many ways resembles a tall plover. It has a small head, large black eyes, a very thin neck, long tail, and long, yellowish legs. The bill is straight and relatively short and is yellow with a black tip. The plumage (similar in all seasons) is mottled and streaked with light and dark browns above and white below, with dark barring on the flanks. Solitary in nature, the upland sandpiper forages for insects and seeds among grasses, and often perches on raised rocks or posts. It curiously keeps its wings raised for a few moments after landing. Its voice includes a slow, strange, ascending and descending throaty whistle. The adult is illustrated.