Eurasian Whimbrel
Numenius phaeopus · Sandpipers and Allies
The Eurasian Whimbrel is a widespread migratory shorebird, easily identified by its long, decurved bill and streaked plumage. It breeds across subarctic Europe and Asia, undertaking long-distance migrations to winter along coasts from Africa to Australasia. This species was recently recognized as distinct from its New World counterpart, the Hudsonian Whimbrel.
Explore the full field guideMigratory, Medium-sized, Wader
4 calls·first heard Jul 7·last 17d ago
When it's heardpeak 5a · fall
5a12p9p
How to know it
- Long, dark, and distinctly downcurved with a noticeable kink, often with a pinkish base to the lower mandible.
- Features a dark crown divided by a prominent light stripe, flanked by dark lines running through the eye.
- Overall greyish-brown and streaked, with a buff-colored, stippled chest and a white belly.
- Typically exhibits a white or white-barred rump and lower back, especially noticeable in flight.