- Numenius phaeopus
Identification
Length 37-45 cm (incl. bill 6-9), wingspan 78-88 cm
The body of this bird is patterned in brownish to brownish-grey colours, especially on the underside over a lighter basis. The bill is bent down about 1/3 from the tip. On the side of the head is a dark stripe through the eye, a light supercilium, a dark stripe above that one, and a light central stripe. The three crown stripes are the most conspicous of these if the crown can be seen well.
Three main forms are recognized: the European forms have a light coloured tail and a white rump that continues up the back, but is only visible in flight. Siberian forms have darker tail and lower rump, but still show the white are on the back. American forms have the tail, rump and back of a similar colour to the wings.
Similar Species
The bill is shorter and less evenly curved than in the Eurasian Curlew. The pattern of stripes on the head and especially in the crown is diagnostic at least in the majority of the range. Bill is significantly shorter than in the Long-billed Curlew.
Distribution
This is a species with a circumpolar distribution, breeding in northern areas of the Western Palearctic (including the Shetland and Faroe Islands), Asia, and the Americas. These birds are all long distance migrants, for example the European populations winters on African coasts, rarely in Europe.
Taxonomy
Subspecies1
- N. p. phaeopus:
- Breeds north-western Palearctic; winters to Africa and India
- N. p. alboaxillaris:
- Breeds Steppes north of the Caspian Sea; winters coastal western Indian Ocean
- N. p. variegatus:
- Breeds Siberia; winters to India, Philippines, Indonesia and Australia
- N. p. hudsonicus:
Habitat
Breeds on taiga bogs, on mountainsides above tree-limit (e.g. cranberry scrub), and tundra, often with mossy areas. On passage frequents mainly pasture and coasts including tidal mud flats.
Behaviour
On passage (mostly late April-May and July-August) seen singly or in small parties.
On their breeding grounds, individuals will fly up from hundreds of meters away to confront perceived threats (from Common Ravens to foxes and people). They will harass the intruder with aerial chases and constant calls.
Diet
The American subspecies often feeds on small crustaceans, minnows, earthworms, aquatic insets and larvae; also seeds and berries.
Vocalisation
Calls include a long, chirruping whistle call and a softer, plaintive mewing given on the ground between members of a pair.
<flashmp3>Numenius phaeopus (song).mp3</flashmp3>
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References
- Clements, James F. 2007. The Clements Checklist of Birds of the World. 6th ed., with updates to October 2007. Ithaca: Cornell University Press. ISBN 9780801445019
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