- Lifespan
- 12–15 years in the wild
- Size & Weight
- 30–33 cm, wingspan 55–67 cm; 140–200 g
- Habitat
- Breeds on moorland, bogs, and wetlands in upland regions; winters on coastal mudflats, estuaries, and inland freshwater sites.
- UK Distribution
- Summer breeder in Scottish Highlands and northern England (April–August); passage migrant throughout the UK during spring and autumn; scarce winter visitor to southern coasts.
- Diet
- Hunts small fish, aquatic invertebrates (insects, crustaceans, molluscs), and occasionally small amphibians by probing and pecking in shallow water and mud.
- Prey
- Small fish, aquatic insect larvae, amphipods, shrimp, small frogs
- Predators
- Foxes, badgers, stoats (eggs and chicks); golden eagles and peregrine falcons (adults)
- Mating Season
- April to July
- Breeding
- Clutch of 4 eggs; incubation period 23–25 days; single brood per season; chicks fledge at 25–29 days old.
- Behaviour
- Highly vocal and territorial during breeding season, producing loud, distinctive 'tu-tu-tu' calls. Often seen in small groups outside breeding season, frequently associating with other wader species. Known for their elegant, deliberate feeding style in shallow water.