White-rumped Sandpiper

Calidris fuscicollis

Breeds in northern Alaska and arctic Can… Nests in moist, mossy tundra near freshw… Uncommon migrant Aerial trill

Learn to identify the White-rumped Sandpiper by ear. Master the "rip-rip-rip-trrrrrrrrr" phrase and tell it apart from similar species.

“rip-rip-rip-trrrrrrrrr”

What the White-rumped Sandpiper sounds like

The White-rumped Sandpiper is a small, long-winged shorebird famous for the bright white patch it flashes at the base of the tail when it takes flight. Though it passes quickly through North America during migration, it travels one of the longest distances of any shorebird—linking the high Arctic tundra to the windswept grasslands of southern South America.

“rip-rip-rip-trrrrrrrrr”

How to tell it apart

Listen for:Given by males during looping display flights over the tundra; starts with several sharp notes followed by a prolonged, buzzy trill. Often written as “rip-rip-rip-trrrrrrrrr”.

Don't confuse with:The Baird’s Sandpiper — baird’s lacks white rump—back appears uniformly brown in flight.

Where you'll hear it

Nests in moist, mossy tundra near freshwater pools. During migration uses a wide array of open, wet habitats including coastal mudflats, estuaries, flooded fields, sewage lagoons, and the vegetated edges of prairie potholes.

Northbound birds peak May–June; southbound July–October with the bulk of the passage occurring earlier than most “peep” sandpipers. Rarely recorded in winter north of the Tropic of Cancer.

Similar species

Baird’s Sandpiper

Baird’s lacks white rump—back appears uniformly brown in flight.

Semipalmated Sandpiper

Shorter wings do not extend past tail.

Sanderling (juvenile)

Larger, whiter overall bird with thick black legs.

White-rumped Sandpiper song FAQ

What does a White-rumped Sandpiper sound like?

Given by males during looping display flights over the tundra; starts with several sharp notes followed by a prolonged, buzzy trill. Listen for the "rip-rip-rip-trrrrrrrrr" phrase.

How do I tell a White-rumped Sandpiper from a Baird’s Sandpiper by sound?

Baird’s Sandpiper: Baird’s lacks white rump—back appears uniformly brown in flight.; Breast is buffier with necklace of streaks.; Wings project similarly long but bill is slightly shorter and straighter..

When is the best time to hear a White-rumped Sandpiper?

Northbound birds peak May–June; southbound July–October with the bulk of the passage occurring earlier than most “peep” sandpipers. Rarely recorded in winter north of the Tropic of Cancer.