Black-tailed Godwit

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The Black-tailed Godwit (Limosa limosa) is a large, long-legged wading bird known for its striking breeding plumage and distinctive calls. Found across wetlands, it is a highly migratory species, undertaking long journeys between its breeding grounds in temperate regions and its wintering areas in warmer climates. This elegant shorebird is a common sight in its preferred habitats, often foraging in shallow water.

Where to spot

Black-tailed Godwits prefer shallow wetlands, wet grasslands, flooded meadows, marshes, estuaries, and coastal lagoons. During migration and winter, they can be found in a wider range of coastal and inland wetlands, including rice paddies and salt marshes.

How to spot

Look for its upright posture, long legs, and a long, straight or slightly upturned bill. In breeding plumage, it has a rich rufous-orange head, neck, and breast, contrasting with a barred belly and a prominent black tail band with a white base, visible in flight. In non-breeding plumage, it is duller, grey-brown. Its distinctive call is a loud, nasal "grutto-grutto" or "wek-wek".

When to spot

They are active during the day, foraging in shallow water or mudflats. Breeding season is typically from April to July in the Northern Hemisphere. Outside the breeding season (autumn and winter), they are highly gregarious and can be observed in large flocks at coastal and inland wetlands.

Where to spot

How to spot

When to spot

Credits: Ger Bosma

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The Black-tailed Godwit's long bill is incredibly sensitive at its tip, allowing it to probe deep into mud and soil to locate invertebrates by touch, even when they are hidden from sight.

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