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Fairly small, stocky shorebird with short, chisel-like bill.
Vulnerable
At a glance
FamilySandpipers and Allies
SizeMedium
RarityCommon
HabitatMudflats, saltmarsh, estuaries, beaches, lagoons, and shallow inland wetlands.
Best timeMost reliable in New South Wales from October to March.
Sounds
Sound sampleRecorded by Ricardo Hevia
Range map
Range map
1191visible hotspots
33529visible records
6states
SparseModerateDense hotspot
Aggregated occurance data is sourced from 14 different actively-updating datasets including eBird Australia, iNaturalist Australia, BirdLife Australia, and multiple state-based bird surveys through Atlas of Living Australia.
Species notes
Overview
Breeding plumage is particular striking with bright rusty upperparts and bold black-and-white pattern on head and neck. Nonbreeding and juvenile are duller brown but still boldly patterned; note orange legs. Interesting behavior of flipping over rocks, shells, and other debris to nab invertebrates. Fairly common, with extensive global range. Breeds in the high Arctic tundra; winters on coastlines nearly worldwide. Prefers rocky habitats, but also seen on beaches and mudflats. Listen for low, hard rattle call.
Behavior
Fairly small, stocky shorebird with short, chisel-like bill. Usually in small flocks, often mixed with other shorebirds.
Gallery