Sandpipers & Snipes in Kent
28 species matching this filter.
Kent's diverse coastal and wetland habitats make it one of the premier counties in England for observing sandpipers and snipes, with 24 species recorded across the region. The extensive mudflats and estuaries of the Thames, Medway, and Swale provide vital feeding grounds for waders such as Bar-tailed Godwit, Black-tailed Godwit, and Curlew, while freshwater marshes and grazing meadows attract species like Common Snipe, Jack Snipe, and Eurasian Woodcock. Whether visiting the renowned reserves of the North Kent Marshes or exploring quieter inland waterways, birdwatchers can enjoy exceptional wader watching throughout the year.
Showing 24–28 of 28 species
Temminck's Stint
Calidris temminckiiLC
A rare passage migrant, briefly appearing at freshwater scrapes and pool margins in May and again in August.
May–Aug
Whimbrel
Numenius phaeopusLC
An uncommon passage visitor, mainly seen on Kent's coastal marshes during spring and autumn migration. Its distinctive whistling call aids detection.
Apr–Oct
White-rumped Sandpiper
Calidris fuscicollisVU
A rare Nearctic vagrant occasionally recorded in July at coastal scrapes. One of the scarcer transatlantic waders to reach Kent.
Jul
Wilson's Phalarope
Phalaropus tricolorLC
A rare vagrant from the Americas, occasionally recorded on autumn passage. Kent's coastal wetlands attract most English records of this species.
Oct
Wood Sandpiper
Tringa glareolaLC
A rare visitor mainly on passage through Kent's freshwater marshes in spring and late summer. Favours muddy pool edges at sites like Stodmarsh.
Apr–Sep