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Sharp-tailed Sandpiper

(Calidris acuminata)
Size: 17-22 cm

Habitat
(for details refer to a field guide)

Sharp-tailed Sandpipers are migrants from the north that populate mostly the south-eastern quarter of the Australian continent (NSW, VIC and eastern SA) and the south-western corner of WA. They can occasionally be found anywhere in between, including - after significant rainfall - all across the interior of the continent.

Sharp-tailed Sandpipers can be found in various types of wetlands, in both freshwater and seawater environments, including ephemeral wetlands.

Sightings

A flock of Sharp-tailed Sandpipers was first seen by us in temporary wetlands 20 km south of Walgett, NSW, in April 2009. There were about 20-30 birds, which stuck together as a flock while feeding. Also when disturbed, they regrouped to stay in close proximity of each other.

Photos

Flock of Sharp-tailed Sandpipers feeding on the fringes of an inundated grain field

Similar view as above

Similar view as above, with a good view onto the back of the bird on the near right

In this photo one has a good lateral view of the bird on the left

These pages are largely based on our own observations. For more salient facts on any bird species please refer to a field guide.