Watercolor portrait of Western Sandpiper (Calidris mauri)

Western Sandpiper

Calidris mauri
Long-distance migrant Mudflats, tidal lagoons, sandy beaches,… Common Display Flight Trill

Learn to identify the Western Sandpiper by ear. Master the "titititititititi" phrase and tell it apart from similar species.

“titititititititi”

What the Western Sandpiper sounds like

The Western Sandpiper is one of North America’s smallest and most numerous shorebirds. A member of the "peeps," it sports a short body, long pointed wings, and a thin black bill that droops noticeably at the tip. In spring it transforms into a rusty-capped sprite; in fall and winter it molts to plain gray, blending with the tidal flats on which it feeds.

“titititititititi”

How to tell it apart

Listen for:Given by males circling 10–20 m above tundra; rapid, dry trill lasting 3–4 s that rises slightly then fades. Often written as “titititititititi”.
Don't confuse with:The Least Sandpiper — yellowish-green legs (never black)

Where you'll hear it

Mudflats, tidal lagoons, sandy beaches, estuaries, salt-marsh edges, and occasionally flooded agricultural fields during migration. Nests on low, hummocky tundra near pools and dwarf shrubs in western Alaska and far eastern Siberia.

• Breeding: late May – mid-July on Arctic tundra • Southbound migration: July – October (peaks Aug–Sep) • Wintering: November – March on tropical and subtropical coasts • Northbound migration: April – May (peaks late Apr)

Similar species

Least Sandpiper

Yellowish-green legs (never black)

Semipalmated Sandpiper

Bill thicker at base and straighter, without droop

Sanderling (juvenile)

Noticeably larger and chunkier

Western Sandpiper song FAQ

What does a Western Sandpiper sound like?
Given by males circling 10–20 m above tundra; rapid, dry trill lasting 3–4 s that rises slightly then fades. Listen for the "titititititititi" phrase.
How do I tell a Western Sandpiper from a Least Sandpiper by sound?
Least Sandpiper: Yellowish-green legs (never black); Slightly smaller with finer, straight bill; Browner overall in non-breeding plumage.
When is the best time to hear a Western Sandpiper?
• Breeding: late May – mid-July on Arctic tundra • Southbound migration: July – October (peaks Aug–Sep) • Wintering: November – March on tropical and subtropical coasts • Northbound migration: April – May (peaks late Apr)