The Short-billed Dowitcher is a medium-sized shorebird very similar in appearance to the Long-billed Dowitcher, differentiated primarily by subtle vocalizations and slight bill differences. It is widespread in the Americas.
Where to spot
Breeds in the taiga and tundra regions of North America; migrates to coastal mudflats and saline wetlands across North, Central, and South America for winter.
How to spot
Look for its 'sewing machine' feeding action in shallow water. Differentiating from Long-billed Dowitcher often requires listening for its distinct 'tu-tu-tu' call or observing subtle plumage differences in breeding season.
When to spot
Best observed during spring and autumn migration at muddy shorelines. Summer in northern breeding grounds, winter in southern non-breeding grounds.
Where to spot
Breeds in the taiga and tundra regions of North America; migrates to coastal mudflats and saline wetlands across North, Central, and South America for winter.
How to spot
Look for its 'sewing machine' feeding action in shallow water. Differentiating from Long-billed Dowitcher often requires listening for its distinct 'tu-tu-tu' call or observing subtle plumage differences in breeding season.
When to spot
Best observed during spring and autumn migration at muddy shorelines. Summer in northern breeding grounds, winter in southern non-breeding grounds.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Despite its name, its bill length can overlap with that of the Long-billed Dowitcher, making identification challenging and often relying on vocalizations or specific breeding range.
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