Bird GuideSandpipersTerek Sandpiper
Terek Sandpiper
Xenus cinereus

At a Glance

An odd shorebird from Eurasia with short legs and a long, upcurved bill. On a mudflat with other sandpipers, the Terek often draws attention by its animated behavior, running about more actively than the other birds. It occurs in small numbers in western Alaska during migration, occasionally in flocks.
Category
Sandpiper-like Birds, Sandpipers
IUCN Status
Least Concern
Habitat
Coasts and Shorelines, Saltwater Wetlands, Tundra and Boreal Habitats
Region
Alaska and The North
Behavior
Direct Flight, Rapid Wingbeats, Running

Range & Identification

Description

10" (25.5 cm). Odd bill shape: long, rather thick, slightly upcurved. Short yellow-orange legs. Plain gray-brown above, usually with dark line above wings.
Size
About the size of a Robin
Color
Brown, Gray, Orange, White
Wing Shape
Long, Pointed, Tapered
Tail Shape
Short

Songs and Calls

A rolling series of shrill whistles.