Purple Sandpiper
Calidris maritima
Length 21cm

Very rare and erratic breeder in N Scotland but widespread, although local, winter visitor from September to April. Recalls dumpy dunlin but has yellow-based bill, yellow legs, blue-grey upperparts and white underparts. Favours rocky shores and headlands, feeding in small, unobtrusive flocks just where waves are breaking. In spring, acquires purple sheen to grey feathers; seen only at close range.