Pectoral Sandpiper - Calidris melanotos
Description
Larger than Dunlin, solidly built with relatively long neck and small head, similar to a female Ruff, it is easily separated from almost all other waders by the sharp contrast between the dark-patterned chest (the pectoral line) and the white belly. Other distinctive features include its yellowish legs, pale base to the bill and two pairs of white lines down the back, like braces. In flight, the pale wingbar is so narrow it is barely noticeable
Similar Species
Needs to be separated from Dunlin and Curlew Sandpiper
Photo ID?
Habitat
Most likely to be found at muddy and grass covered shores of freshwater pools, marshes or lakes.
When to see it
July to October with peak September to October
UK Status
Rare visitor from arctic America and eastern Siberia
VC55 Status
First recorded at Eyebrook Reservoir in 1953 there have been some 35 individuals recorded up to 2011
Leicestershire & Rutland
UK Map
On the Leicestershire & Rutland map above, red = NatureSpot records, green = NBN records. You can add a dot to this map if you submit a wildlife sighting (with or without an image). You can also find out more about these species distribution maps on our Maps help page.
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