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Semipalmated Sandpiper

Calidris pusilla ORDER: CHARADRIIFORMES FAMILY: SCOLOPACIDAE

IUCN Conservation Status: Least Concern

Semipalmated Sandpiper Photo

© 2004 Cornell Lab of Ornithology

An abundant small shorebird, the Semipalmated Sandpiper breeds in the Arctic and winters along the coasts of South America.

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

Appearance

Shorebirds
Shorebirds
Typical Voice

Adult Description

Small sandpiper. Short neck. Moderately long bill, may droop slightly at tip. Moderately long legs. Black center of rump and tail. Legs black. Back gray-brown. Chest usually only lightly marked. Short webbing between toes (hard to see).

Immature Description

Juvenile similar to adult, but with more scaly pattern on back.

Range Map Help

Semipalmated Sandpiper Range Map
View dynamic map of eBird sightings

Similar Species

  • Western Sandpiper very similar, but usually has longer, more drooping bill.
  • Least Sandpiper has a more reddish back, more distinct markings on the chest, and yellow legs.