Green Sandpiper
Tringa ochropus
Overview
The Green Sandpiper is a slightly secretive wader of freshwater ditches and pool edges. It often goes undetected until flushed, when it rises steeply calling loudly with a ringing 'tloo-eet' — then the brilliant white rump contrasting with very dark upperparts makes identification easy. Darker and more contrasting than Common Sandpiper, with a white rump that flashes in flight like a small snipe. Arrives from northern Europe in July–August, overlapping with the last of spring's breeding birds.
At a Glance
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Scolopacidae |
| Habitat | Freshwater ditch · Pool edge · Marsh |
| Diet | Invertebrates from ditch edges and shallow water |
| UK population | Passage and winter only; small numbers — amber-listed |
| Sefton Coast | Regular autumn passage visitor; small numbers in ditches at Marshside |
| Conservation | UK Amber List |
Where to See It
Ditches and pool edges at Marshside RSPB. Damp areas on dune slack edges.
Identification
Small-medium wader. Very dark green-brown above (almost black), white below. Brilliant white rump in flight — the key feature. Dark underwing. Bobs tail but less than Common Sandpiper. Loud, ringing call when flushed.
Viewing & Photography Tips
Walk ditch edges at Marshside in August. Listen for the loud, clear 'tloo-eet-eet' call when birds are flushed. The dark back and blazing white rump distinguish it from Common Sandpiper at a glance.
Conservation Status
UK Amber List
This species is on the UK Amber List for Birds (BoCC5), indicating moderate concern. Population monitoring and habitat management remain important for its continued recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the Green Sandpiper nest in trees?
Green Sandpipers breed in Scandinavia and northern Russia and have the unusual habit of nesting in old tree nests — typically those of thrushes, pigeons or squirrels — rather than on the ground. This is unique among UK waders. Chicks jump from the nest shortly after hatching.
Related Species
Plan your visit to the Sefton Coast
Marshside RSPB, Formby pinewoods, Ainsdale NNR — practical guides to getting there, what to bring, and the best spots for each season.