Black-tailed Godwit

Limosa limosa

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Brief #

During the breeding season, the bill has a yellowish or orange-pink base and dark tip; the base is pink in winter.

Synonyms #

  • Aguja colinegra (Spanish)
  • Mazarico rabinegro (Galician)

Red List Status #

The Black-tailed Godwit is close to being at high risk of extinction in the near future.
Find out more about IUCN's Red List program here

Description #

During the breeding season, the bill has a yellowish or orange-pink base and dark tip; the base is pink in winter. The legs are dark grey, brown or black. The sexes are similar, but in breeding plumage, they can be separated by the male's brighter, more extensive orange breast, neck and head. In winter, adult black-tailed godwits have a uniform brown-grey breast and upperparts (in contrast to the bar-tailed godwit's streaked back). Juveniles have a pale orange wash to the neck and breast.

Measurements #

Length: 40 - 44 cm
Wingspan: 70 - 82 cm
Weight: 280 - 340 g

Similar species #