Compare with Similar Species
Click on an image to compare
Rock Sandpiper Identification
Nonbreeding
Stocky, short-legged sandpiper with a dropping bill that is yellow at the base. Nonbreeding birds are pale gray above with spotting on the breast.
© Caroline Lambert | Macaulay LibraryCalifornia, January 16, 2015
Breeding adult
Stocky, short-legged sandpiper with a dropping bill that is yellow at the base. Breeding birds have a pale head, chestnut markings on the back, and a dark belly patch.
© Brian Sullivan | Macaulay LibraryCalifornia, April 20, 2008
Breeding
Males and females may incubate the eggs alone, or both parents may share the responsibility. Clutch sizes are generally between one and four eggs.
© Luke Eberhart-Phillips | Macaulay LibraryAlaska, June 26, 2012
Nonbreeding
Plumage brightest varies from darkest in the Aleutian Islands to palest in the Pribilof Islands. Nonbreeding birds are grayish above with gray spotting below.
© Johnny Bovee | Macaulay LibraryAlaska, October 04, 2016
Juvenile
Juveniles have cinnamon edging on their back feathers and brownish spotting on the breast.
© Brian SullivanAugust 26, 2004
Juvenile
Juveniles have cinnamon edging on their back feathers and brownish spotting on the beast.
© Brian Sullivan | Macaulay LibraryAlaska, August 21, 2004
Adult Description
Plump, medium-sized shorebird. Medium-length bill, with slight droop at end. Short, yellow legs. Mostly dark. Broad white stripe in wings.Immature Description
Juvenile scaly all over back, with reddish on shoulders, chest white whitish with heavy streaks and spots.Relative Size
robin-sizedMeasurements
- Both Sexes
- Length: 7.1-9.4 in (18-24 cm)
- Weight: 2.0-4.6 oz (57-130 g)
Don't miss a thing! Join our email list
The Cornell Lab will send you updates about birds, birding, and opportunities to help bird conservation.