About Calidris minutilla (Vieillot, 1819)
Scientific Nomenclature
This species, the least sandpiper (scientific name: Calidris minutilla (Vieillot, 1819)), has yellow-green legs and a short, thin, dark bill.
Breeding Adult Plumage
Breeding adult individuals have brown upper bodies with dark brown streaks, and white underparts. They have a pale line above the eye and a dark crown.
Non-Breeding Plumage
In winter, least sandpipers are grey on their upper bodies.
Juvenile Plumage
Juvenile least sandpipers have bright patterning on their upper bodies, with rufous coloration and white stripes along the mantle.
Similar Species Grouping
This bird can be hard to tell apart from other similar tiny shorebirds, which are collectively called "peeps" or "stints". It is especially similar to its Asian relative, the long-toed stint.
Distinction From Long-toed Stint
The least sandpiper differs from the long-toed stint by having a more compact build, a shorter neck, shorter toes, somewhat duller overall coloration, and a more prominent wingbar.
Standard Measurements
Standard measurements for the species are: length 13–15 cm (5.1–5.9 in), wingspan 27–28 cm (11–11 in), and weight 19–30 g (0.67–1.06 oz).
Identification Reference
A key reference for identification of this species is Jonsson, Lars & Peter J. Grant (1984) Identification of stints and peeps British Birds 77 (7): 293-315.
