Green Sandpiper (Tringa ochropus) — identification, habitat & look-alikes

Green Sandpipers are Eurasian s that favor small freshwater wetlands and only occasionally reach the United States. They resemble the familiar Solitary Sandpiper (Tringa solitaria). In flight, their white rump stands out between dark wings, while Solitary Sandpipers have a dark rump.

Appearance

Appearance: This plump shorebird is about 8.5–10 in (22–25 cm) long. It has a dark greenish-brown back with pale spots, white underparts, dark green legs, and a bright white rump that flashes in flight.
Voice: When startled into flight, it often gives a clear, high three-note whistle.

Look-alikes

Solitary SandpiperTringa solitaria

Watch the rump when the bird flies: Green Sandpiper has a bright white rump, while Solitary Sandpiper has a dark rump. A photo of the spread tail and rump is especially useful.

Why they get mixed upThese close relatives share a dark spotted back, pale eye ring, and a preference for small freshwater wetlands.

Where it lives

Typical habitats: small freshwater ponds
marsh edges
ditches and slow streams
Range: It breeds across northern Eurasia and winters from southern Europe and Africa through southern Asia. In the United States and Canada it is only a casual visitor.
Seasonal presence

Behavior

Diet: It steadily picks small from mud and shallow freshwater edges.
Social life: It is usually alone or in a very small group rather than a large flock.

Life cycle

Breeding season: It does not regularly breed in the United States.
Nest: Unlike most shorebirds, it often lays its eggs in an old tree nest built by another bird.
Clutch size: 2–4 eggs
Incubation: The eggs hatch after about three weeks.

Conservation

IUCN Red List: LCLeast ConcernLow risk of extinction

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