- Lifespan
- 10–15 years in the wild
- Size & Weight
- 43–46 cm, wingspan 77–83 cm; 290–370 g
- Habitat
- Shallow brackish or freshwater lakes, lagoons, and coastal wetlands with exposed mud and sparse vegetation.
- UK Distribution
- Summer breeding visitor to southern and eastern England, particularly East Anglia and the south coast; passage migrant in spring and autumn. Winters mainly in West Africa.
- Diet
- Small aquatic invertebrates including insects, crustaceans, and molluscs, caught by sweeping its curved bill through shallow water.
- Prey
- Aquatic insect larvae, small fish, shrimp, brine shrimp, and other small invertebrates
- Predators
- Foxes, stoats, and corvids prey on eggs and chicks; gulls, marsh harriers, and other raptors take chicks and occasionally adults
- Mating Season
- April to July
- Breeding
- Clutch size 3–4 eggs, incubation period 22–24 days, typically one brood per year. Chicks fledge at 35–42 days.
- Behaviour
- Highly social and vocal, often seen in small flocks. Uses a distinctive sweeping motion with its upturned bill to feed in shallow water. Performs elaborate courtship displays and actively defends breeding territories.