BROAD-BILLED SANDPIPER Calidris falcinellus

Another migratory wader occurring on passage in Britain, although in small numbers. The bill is broad laterally, often not apparent in the field but the length and distinctive downcurved tip are, likewise the head pattern. It breeds in distinct regions of the Arctic tundra, usually marshy areas, wintering on a broad front from the Middle East and East Africa to Australia. The nearest breeding area is in northern Scandinavia, which accounts for British records, although it is generally quite a scarce bird. As well as the bill, which is only broad from certain angles, the head pattern is distinctive.

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