The wandering tattler is a medium-sized shorebird, similar in appearance to the closely related gray-tailed tattler. The tattlers are unique among the species of Tringa for having unpatterned, greyish wings and backs, and a scaly breast pattern extending more or less onto the belly in breeding plumage, in which both also have a rather prominent supercilium.
Region
Pacific Basin
Typical Environment
Breeds along fast-flowing mountain streams and gravel bars in Alaska and parts of northwestern North America. During migration and winter it ranges widely across the Pacific, including the Pacific coast of North America from Alaska to Central and northern South America, and many oceanic islands such as Hawaii and throughout Polynesia and Micronesia. It favors rugged, rocky shorelines, reef edges, tide pools, and man-made structures like breakwaters. On the breeding grounds it uses shrubby or sparsely vegetated river corridors near swift water and gravel bars. It rarely uses broad mudflats compared with many other shorebirds.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Other
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The wandering tattler is one of the few Tringa sandpipers that prefers rocky shorelines rather than mudflats, often foraging on wave-battered reefs and jetties. Its name comes from its loud, scolding alarm calls that readily alert other birds. It constantly bobs its tail while feeding, a behavior helpful for identification. In breeding plumage it shows bold dark barring from the chest to the belly, contrasting with its otherwise plain gray upperparts.
Temperament
wary and alert
Flight Pattern
strong, direct flier with rapid wingbeats, often low over surf
Social Behavior
Generally solitary or in small loose groups on wintering grounds; more dispersed pairs on breeding territories along streams. Pairs are monogamous for the season and nest on the ground in sparsely vegetated areas near water. Both sexes participate in incubation and brood care.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
Vocalizations include sharp, scolding whistles and rapid, ringing series that accelerate when alarmed. In flight it often gives a repeated, clear, piping call that carries over surf. Breeding birds deliver more insistent trills near the nest.
