Black-tailed Godwit look-alikes
Limosa limosa
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Open the appSeveral birds can be mistaken for the Black-tailed Godwit. Compare the key differences below to confirm your sighting.
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Bar-tailed Godwit
Limosa lapponica
Key differences
The Bar-tailed Godwit lacks the prominent white wing-bar and has a finely barred tail (not black with a white base). Its bill is typically more upturned. Breeding plumage is more uniformly rufous, extending further down the belly, and lacks the distinct barring on the flanks. In flight, the Bar-tailed Godwit shows a plain back and rump, contrasting with the Black-tailed Godwit's white rump and black tail.
Common Redshank
Tringa totanus
Key differences
The Common Redshank is smaller, has bright red legs and a red-based bill. Its white wing-bar is narrower, and its tail is white with fine barring, not solid black. Its call is a distinctive 'teu-hu-hu'.
Greenshank
Tringa nebularia
Key differences
The Greenshank is slightly smaller, has greenish-grey legs, and a distinctly upturned bill. It lacks the prominent white wing-bar and black tail of the Black-tailed Godwit. Its plumage is generally paler grey.
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