The marbled godwit is a large migratory shorebird in the family Scolopacidae. On average, it is the largest of the four species of godwit.
Region
North America
Typical Environment
Breeds primarily in the northern Great Plains and Prairie Pothole Region of the United States and Canada, with a disjunct population around James Bay. During migration and winter it occurs along both North American coasts, especially the Pacific Coast from California south into Mexico and Central America, and the Gulf and Atlantic coasts from Texas and Florida northward in smaller numbers. Typical habitats include shortgrass and mixed-grass prairies with shallow wetlands in the breeding season. In the nonbreeding season it favors coastal mudflats, estuaries, lagoons, and sandy beaches. It also uses inland saline lakes and large river flats during migration.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The marbled godwit is the largest of the godwits, recognized by its long, slightly upturned bicolored bill and rich cinnamon underwings. It breeds in the North American prairies and relies on intact grassland–wetland mosaics. Using a highly sensitive bill tip, it probes for invertebrates in mud and sand. Conservation of prairie pothole wetlands is crucial for sustaining its breeding populations.
Temperament
wary but social
Flight Pattern
strong flier with direct flight and rapid wingbeats; shows flashing cinnamon underwings
Social Behavior
Often forms loose flocks on migration and in winter, sometimes mixing with other shorebirds. On the breeding grounds pairs defend territories in grasslands and nest on the ground in a shallow scrape. Both sexes incubate and tend precocial chicks. Post-breeding, birds often gather at rich feeding sites before migrating.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
Displays a loud, ringing series of nasal yelps and kek-kek notes, especially in flight over breeding territories. Also gives softer clucks and chatter while foraging and in flocks.
