The willet is a large shorebird in the family Scolopacidae. It is a relatively large and robust sandpiper and is the largest of the species called "shanks" in the genus Tringa. Its closest relative is the lesser yellowlegs, a much smaller bird with a very different appearance apart from the fine, clear, and dense pattern of the neck, which both species show in breeding plumage. It breeds in North America and the West Indies and winters in southern North America, Central America, the West Indies and South America.
Region
Americas
Typical Environment
Breeds along Atlantic and Gulf coasts, Caribbean islands, and inland marshes and prairies of western North America. Winters along the coasts of the southern United States, Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean, and northern South America. Uses sandy beaches, saltmarshes, mudflats, estuaries, mangroves, and inland wetlands. Western populations favor prairie potholes and alkali flats during breeding, while Eastern birds nest in coastal marsh and dune vegetation.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Willets are robust shorebirds notable for their bold black-and-white wing pattern that flashes dramatically in flight. The species has semi-webbed toes (reflected in the name semipalmata), aiding stability on soft mud and surf-washed shores. Two main forms occur: the Eastern Willet of Atlantic and Gulf coasts, and the Western Willet breeding inland on prairies, differing subtly in size and plumage.
The white wing band is distinctive in flight, both above and below
Egg
Temperament
alert and territorial during breeding; more tolerant and gregarious in winter
Flight Pattern
strong flier with steady, shallow wingbeats; conspicuous wing flash on takeoff
Social Behavior
Typically nests solitarily or in loose neighborhoods, with both sexes incubating ground nests concealed in grass or marsh vegetation. Pairs are seasonally monogamous and aggressively defend territories, especially near the nest. Outside the breeding season they often roost and forage in small to medium flocks.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
Loud, ringing, and repetitive calls, often rendered as a sharp 'pill-will-willet' alarm near nests. Also gives scolding, buzzy notes and whistles during territorial displays.
