The buff-breasted sandpiper is a small shorebird. The species name subruficollis is from Latin subrufus, "reddish" and collis, "-necked/-throated". It is a calidrid sandpiper.
Region
Americas
Typical Environment
Breeds on dry upland tundra of Arctic Alaska and northwestern Canada, favoring sparsely vegetated ridges and polygonal tundra. During migration it moves through the central Great Plains and interior lowlands, often using short-grass prairies, grazed pastures, sod farms, and airport lawns. It winters primarily in the grasslands and pampas of southern South America, including Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, and southern Brazil. It is seldom found on muddy shorelines compared to other sandpipers, preferring dry, open turf.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Other
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This small shorebird is unusual among sandpipers for favoring dry, short-grass habitats rather than shorelines. Males display on leks, performing butterfly-like flights and postures to attract females. The species name subruficollis means 'somewhat reddish-necked,' referring to its buff-colored breast and face. Populations declined historically from market hunting and continue to face threats from habitat loss and collisions at airfields.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
strong flier with rapid wingbeats; low, agile flights over grass
Social Behavior
Males gather on leks on the breeding grounds, where they display with upright postures and fluttering flights to attract females. Nests are shallow ground scrapes lined with vegetation, and clutches are typically small. During migration and winter, they form small to medium-sized flocks that feed and roost together in open grasslands.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
Generally quiet; males give soft, rolling trills and whistles during display at leks. Contact calls are short, dry chips delivered in flight or while foraging.
