Key information
The curlew sandpiper is similar to a dunlin, but in autumn it looks cleaner and paler with a white eyestripe. It has a longer, more down-curved bill than a dunlin and will feed in slightly deeper water. Deep chestnut breeding plumage unmistakable in spring and summer. In flight it shows a bright white rump.
What they eat:
Snails, worms and shrimps.
Measurements:
- Length:
- 18-23cm
- Wingspan:
- 38-41cm
- Weight:
- 45-90g
Population:
- UK passage:
- 740 individuals
Identifying features:
This bird species has different identifying features depending on sex/age/season.
Curlew sandpiper (summer plumage)

Curlew sandpiper (juvenile)
