Shorebirds- ORDER: Charadriiformes
- FAMILY: Scolopacidae
Basic Description
Shorebirds have some of the most interesting bill shapes and the Marbled Godwit is no exception with its swordlike bill. It plunges its two-toned, long, and slightly upturned bill deep into sand and mud to pull out aquatic invertebrates and plant tubers. This graceful shorebird is speckled in browns with a cinnamon wash that is especially noticeable when it spreads its long and pointed wings to take flight. It breeds in the northern prairies and spends the winters along the coasts.
More ID InfoFind This Bird
Marbled Godwits might be easiest to find on the wintering grounds, where they congregate along shorelines and estuaries along the coast. They forage in shallow waters, sometimes just getting their feet wet and other times standing in water up to their bellies. Their large size, very long, upturned bill, and cinnamon plumage help them stand out from other shorebirds. In flight look for their cinnamon wings and feet that extend beyond the tail, unlike Whimbrels whose feet do not extend beyond the tail.
Other Names
- Aguja Canela (Spanish)
- Barge marbrée (French)