Redshank

Redshank

Scientific Name: ( Tringa totanus )

Aptly named after their long red legs, the Redshank is a noisy wading bird that can be seen all year round along our coastline.

Redshanks are medium sized wading birds and are typically found feeding in marshes, mudflats and coastal wetlands. They can be seen throughout the year across Northern England and Scotland but a large number of birds also migrate to the UK from Iceland during the winter months.

Shank is another word for leg or shin and therefore the “Red-Shank” is an easy wader to remember thanks to its bright red legs. They have straight bills with an orange-red base and a black tip. They are a speckled-brown colour with a whitish underbelly. In flight they have a white triangle up their back and white edges on their wings- great features to look out for when birds are on the move. They are noisy birds and emit a high-pitched whistling call when they perceive a threat or spot a predator.

Redshank is on the Amber List for Birds of Conservation Concern. Although they are not listed in the Special Protection Areas covering the Sunderland coast, the UK supports large numbers of birds during the wintering months and therefore protection of our coastal habitats is crucial.

They are usually seen foraging on molluscs and small fish along our rocky shores. When roosting they often perch on rocks or take refuge along low harbour walls and jetties. Good locations to spot them in Sunderland are highlighted on the map below. Always remember to follow our guidance when it comes to reducing bird disturbance.

KEY FACTS

CONSERVATION STATUS | Amber

LENGTH | 28cm

WINGSPAN | 62cm

WHEN TO SEE THEM | All year round but good numbers in autumn/winter

Redshank

Redshank

KEY FACTS

Common gull

Northern Gannet

Sanderling

NAV

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