Common Sandpiper

Background

Primarily a river dwelling bird, the Common Sandpiper is a camouflaged species with a brown and white colouration, allowing them to easily blend in with their surroundings. If this does fail however, they are adapted to diving in order to get away from predators.

Habitat

This species is common throughout Europe, and whilst only a migrant species to most of Britain, it can be found as late as October and in the southern reaches of England, it can be found all year round. The best places to look for this species include; lake sides, rivers and streams.

Diet

A wading bird the Common Sandpiper feeds on invertebrates which bury themselves in the ground. Worms make up the majority of this species’ diet. Some parts of their diet include frogs and seeds.

Predators & Threats

Like many species of bird, they are extremely vulnerable to predation whilst in the egg and as chicks from small mammals and other species of bird. This primarily includes crows, foxes, ravens and rats.

Facts

• They give a call of three notes just before they take off, giving away their presence.
• Whilst a creature that spends most of the day by itself, they can be found in groups of up to 100 when they roost.

Best Time to Look

March - October