Pectoral Sandpiper (Calidris melanotos)

Identification & Behavior: ~21 cm (8.2 in). The Pectoral Sandpiper is brownish with a white belly. The finely streaked breast is sharply set off from the white belly. The bill is yellowish orange on the base. The bill coloration and sharp separation of the white belly and brown breast distinguish the Pectoral Sandpiper from other similar shorebirds. It favors mudflats, sandy beaches, and edges at bodies of water.

Status: The Pectoral Sandpiper is a common Boreal migrant to the coast of Peru during the months of September through April. It is found throughout the country of Peru at all elevations. Some individuals overwinter in South America. It also occurs in Co, Ec, Br, Bo, and Ch.

Name in Spanish: Playero Pectoral.

Sub-species: Pectoral Sandpiper (Calidris melanotos), Vieillot 1819.

Meaning of Name: Calidris: Gr. kalidris, skalidris= shorebird the color of ash mentioned by Aristotle. melanotos= Gr. Melas=black and nötos= back.

See more of the Family Scolopacidae