Identification guide 1
Greenshank and Marsh Sandpiper
The Pumicestone
Passage Shorebird Challenge and Identification Guide states the following:
Greenshank - Large
(30-34 cm), grey above and white below, with long slightly upturned dark bill,
greenish-grey at base, and long greenish legs. In flight shows white back and
rump. In breeding plumage has dark streaking on head and breast. Loud ringing
"tew-tew-tew" call.
Marsh Sandpiper -
Medium (22-25 cm), grey above and white below, with long straight needle-like
black bill and long olive-green legs. In flight shows white back and rump. Like
a miniature Common Greenshank. In breeding plumage has dark streaking on head
and breast.
Nevertheless, these
two species can easily be confused.
The following two
plates have kindly been supplied by Robert Inglis, who took the photographs and
wrote the text.
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The first
plate shows the size difference between the two species.
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The second
plate shows the difference in shape and size of their bills.
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Note that the bill of a Marsh Sandpiper often
appears needle-thin and perfectly straight.
The following photograph, by Jill
Dening, of Greenshank (left) and Marsh Sandpipers (right), illustrates
their size difference and their characteristic bills.
A Greenshank is readily recognised
by its loud and distinctive call, often given in flight. Marsh
Sandpipers, however, are generally silent during their stay in the Pumicestone Region.
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