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Long-billed Curlew

Numenius americanus ORDER: CHARADRIIFORMES FAMILY: SCOLOPACIDAE

IUCN Conservation Status: Least Concern

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Long-billed Curlew Photo

© William L. Newton / CLO

North America's largest shorebird, the Long-billed Curlew breeds in the grasslands of the Great Plains and Great Basin.

Inside Birding
For complete information on this species, visit The Birds of North America Online.

Appearance

Shorebirds
Shorebirds
Typical Voice

Adult Description

  • Large shorebird.
  • Extremely long, down-curved bill.
  • Buffy brown in color.
  • Plain crown.

Immature Description

Similar to adult, bill shorter.

Range Map Help

Long-billed Curlew Range Map
View dynamic map of eBird sightings

Similar Species

  • Whimbrel slightly shorter, with shorter bill, has distinct stripes on top of head, lacks cinnamon under the wings, and is more barred and less buffy.