Species Profile
Black-tailed Godwit
Limosa limosa
Quick Facts
Conservation
NTNear ThreatenedAlso known as: Continental Black-tailed Godwit
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Appearance
The Black-tailed Godwit is a large wader with long legs and a distinctively long, straight bill. In breeding plumage, it displays rich chestnut-red underparts, contrasting with a brown-streaked head and neck. Its back is mottled brown, and its long black tail has a striking white base.
Females are typically larger and duller than males. In winter, both sexes adopt a more subdued grey-brown plumage. Juveniles resemble non-breeding adults but have a buff tinge to their plumage.
Identification & Characteristics
Male Colors
- Primary
- Brown
- Secondary
- Grey
- Beak
- Pink
- Legs
- Black
Female Colors
- Primary
- Brown
- Secondary
- White
- Beak
- Pink
- Legs
- Black
Female Markings
Generally duller and larger than males
Attributes
Understanding Attributes
Rated 0–100 based on research and observation. A score of 50 is average across all bird species. These attributes are relative and don't necessarily indicate superiority.
Habitat & Distribution
Black-tailed Godwits inhabit various wetland habitats, including coastal mudflats, estuaries, marshes, and wet grasslands. They breed across northern Europe and Asia, from Iceland to Siberia. During winter, they migrate to coastal areas in Western Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and parts of South Asia.
In the UK, they are both breeding birds and winter visitors, with important populations in East Anglia and the Wash. Outside of Europe, they can be found in coastal regions of Africa and Asia during non-breeding seasons.
Distribution
Where to See This Bird
Explore regional guides for locations where this bird has been recorded.
United Kingdom
England
Northern Ireland
Wales
Rutland
Cambridgeshire
Cheshire
Cornwall
Devon
Dorset
East Riding of Yorkshire
Essex
Gloucestershire
Hampshire
Isle of Wight
Kent
Merseyside
Lancashire
Lincolnshire
Northumberland
Norfolk
South Yorkshire
Suffolk
Somerset
Stockton-on-Tees
West Yorkshire
West Sussex
Diet
Black-tailed Godwits primarily feed on invertebrates such as insects, worms, and molluscs. They use their long, sensitive bills to probe deep into mud or shallow water.
During migration, they may also consume plant material, including seeds and rhizomes of aquatic plants.
Behaviour
Black-tailed Godwits are highly gregarious, often seen in large flocks during migration and winter. They wade in shallow water, probing deeply with their long bills for invertebrates.
During the breeding season, males perform elaborate aerial displays, calling loudly while flying in circles to attract mates.
Calls & Sounds
The Black-tailed Godwit has a distinctive call, often described as a loud, clear 'wik-wik-wik' or 'tu-tu-tu'.
During breeding season, males produce a more melodious song that sounds like 'toodle-oodle-oodle', often given during display flights.
Nesting & Breeding
Black-tailed Godwits form monogamous pairs and breed in the spring. Males perform elaborate aerial displays and vocalisations to attract mates. The breeding season typically starts in April or May, depending on the location.
Nests are simple scrapes on the ground, often in damp meadows or marshes, lined with grass and leaves. Females usually lay 3-4 olive-green eggs with brown spots. Both parents take turns incubating the eggs.
Incubation lasts about 22-24 days. Chicks are precocial and can leave the nest shortly after hatching. They fledge after 25-30 days but remain dependent on their parents for several more weeks.
Conservation
The Black-tailed Godwit is classified as Near Threatened due to habitat loss and degradation. Conservation efforts focus on protecting and restoring wetland habitats, particularly in breeding areas.
International cooperation is crucial for safeguarding their migratory routes and wintering grounds.
Elevation
Up to 1,000 meters
Additional Details
- Predators:
- Main predators include large birds of prey such as Peregrine Falcons and Goshawks, as well as foxes and other ground predators that may target eggs and chicks.
Birdwatching Tips
- Look for Black-tailed Godwits in coastal mudflats and estuaries during migration
- Listen for their distinctive 'wik-wik-wik' call in flight
- Observe their unique feeding behaviour, probing deep into mud with their long bills
- In the UK, visit nature reserves like the Ouse Washes or Minsmere RSPB reserve for good viewing opportunities
Did You Know?
- Black-tailed Godwits can fly at speeds of up to 60 mph during migration.
- They have been known to live for over 25 years in the wild.
- Their long bills are highly sensitive and can detect prey items buried deep in mud.
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