Black-tailed Godwit
Limosa limosa
Length 41cm

Large, long-legged wader with incredibly long, very slightly upturned bill which is pinkish at base. In all plumages, recognised in flight by black tail, white rump and conspicuous white wingbars. In winter plumage, has rather uniformly grey-brown upperparts and pale underparts. In breeding plumage, acquires orange-red wash to head and neck with feathers on back having black centres. Juvenile has buffish wash on neck and breast. Rare breeding species favouring flood meadows, mainly in E England. Locally common, flock-forming migrant and winter visitor to mudflats and estuaries; in winter, widespread except in N.