Sandpipers · Shorebirds
Common Sandpiper
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Actitis hypoleucos
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Voice
Call
Song
Song
How to recognize it
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18–20 cm long
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Brown back, white underside
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Dark stripe by the eye, short pale yellow legs
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Flies low over water with stiff wingbeats
About the species
Grey-brown above and white below, the Common Sandpiper has a dark bill with a pale base and short, pale yellow legs. A dark stripe runs through each eye, while the brown wings show a crisp pattern in flight. In winter, its upperparts look duller and the wing barring becomes more noticeable.
While feeding, it thrusts its head forward and pumps its tail, picking small prey from the ground or shallow water. It flies low over water on stiff wings and gives a quick "hi-di-di-di" call. Usually alone, it may gather with others during migration.
Along rivers, streams, and still waters, it feeds on insects, crustaceans, and other small invertebrates. It nests on the ground near freshwater. After breeding across much of temperate and subtropical Europe and Asia, it migrates south for winter to Africa, southern Asia, and Australia.
Where to find
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From April to October in Europe, look along shallow river and stream edges for a Common Sandpiper picking small invertebrates from the ground or water.
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At the shore of still freshwater, watch for a bobbing tail and forward-thrusting head as it feeds.
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Over the water, look for a low flight with stiff wingbeats.
