Sound clips and movies require Adobe Flash player. Latin nameTringa erythropus FamilySandpipers and allies (Scolopacidae) OverviewThe spotted redshank is a medium sized elegant wading bird, slightly larger than a redshank. In summer plumage the adults are almost entirely black, save for some white `spotting' on the wings, a white `wedge' on the back showing clearly in flight, and a barred tail. In winter they have a grey back, and paler under parts, with a more prominent eye stripe than a redshank and lacking a redshank's white wing bars. They migrate from northern European across and northern Siberian breeding areas, to winter in Europe, Africa, China and South-east Asia. They are a relatively scarce wintering species in the UK, with over half the population found at fewer than ten sites, making them an Amber List species. Where to see themIn winter on coastal wetland sites, especially in North Kent and Essex, Hampshire and West Wales. When to see themSouthward migration takes place in July and August with most birds passing through the UK in September. Wintering birds remain until April and May. What they eatInsect larvae, shrimps and worms Estimated numbers| Europe | UK breeding* | UK wintering* | UK passage* |
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| - | - | 138 birds | 540 birds |
* UK breeding is the number of pairs breeding annually. UK wintering is the number of individuals present from October to March. UK passage is the number of individuals passing through on migration in spring and/or autumn. Distribution
Please note that the map is only intended as a guide. It shows general distribution rather than detailed, localised populations. Audio is from commercial recordings Bird Songs and Calls of Britain and Europe on 4 CDs or Bird Sounds of Europe & North-west Africa, copyright WildSounds & CEBA (www.wildsounds.com, (UK) +44 (0) 1263 741100) |