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Sound clips and movies require Adobe Flash player. Latin nameLimosa limosa FamilySandpipers and allies (Scolopacidae) OverviewThe black-tailed godwit is a large wading bird with a very long straight bill and long legs. In flight it shows a white wing-stripe and a black and white tail. It has suffered a large breeding population decline in the past and is now a rare breeder. It is a summer visitor to its breeding grounds, wintering in Africa. Birds from northern Europe spend the winter on UK coasts. Where to see themBlack-tailed godwits are best looked for away from their breeding grounds, as they are easier to see. Look for them in autumn and winter at RSPB coastal reserves When to see themAll year round What they eatInsects, worms and snails Estimated numbers
* 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. Find out moreAudio 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) |
 Winter plumage  Black-tailed godwit in flight  Summer plumage Similar birdsHelp the Black-tailed godwitWe need to take urgent action to secure the future of this species. Become a member today and help us continue our vital conservation work. |
Limosa race of black-tailed godwit - Katie Fuller
RSPB Ouse Washes reserve, general landscape showing river - Andy Hay (rspb-images.com, Ref: 2004_5930_009 )
Bird illustrations by Mike Langman (RSPB)