The Common Redshank, belonging to the Scolopacidae (sandpiper) family, is a medium-sized wader known for its slender, long legs and distinctive call. Scientifically named Tringa totanus, the species has a wide distribution, primarily across Europe and Asia. In Türkiye, it is frequently observed in wetlands and coastal marshes.

Morphological Characteristics

The Common Redshank derives its name from its bright reddish-orange legs. It measures approximately 27–29 cm in length, with a wingspan of about 50–57 cm. Its plumage is brownish with dark spots and streaks along the body. The bill is reddish like the legs, with a blackish tip. During flight, the white patches on the underwings and the white bands on the tail are visible, making the bird easily recognizable in the air.

Distribution and Habitat

Redshanks breed mainly in regions extending from northern Europe to Central Asia. They are migratory birds, wintering in North Africa, Southern Europe, and coastal areas of South Asia. Turkey plays a crucial role as a breeding ground, stopover site during migration, and a wintering habitat for the species.

They prefer a variety of wetland habitats such as freshwater marshes, saltwater lagoons, river deltas, reed beds, lake shores, and muddy coastal zones. During migration periods, they can also be seen in wet meadows, saline marshes, and even seashores.

^{The Common Redshank (Pexels)}

Behavior and Feeding

Common Redshanks are usually seen alone or in small groups, although they may form larger flocks during migration. Their alarm call is distinctive and serves both as a warning signal to conspecifics and as a territorial defense mechanism. Their feeding habits are typical of shorebirds. Using their long bills, they forage in soft mud or shallow waters for invertebrates. Their diet includes insect larvae, worms, crustaceans, and small mollusks. Occasionally, they may also feed on small fish.

Breeding

The breeding season begins in spring. Females build nests on the ground, usually in areas with short and sparse vegetation, by creating a simple scrape. They typically lay 3 to 5 eggs. The incubation period lasts around 22–24 days. Chicks leave the nest shortly after hatching but remain under the protection of their parents.

Redshanks can display highly aggressive behaviors when potential threats approach their nests. They also exhibit "distraction displays" such as feigning injury to lure predators away from their nesting sites.

Conservation Status

Although the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) lists the species as “Least Concern,” its habitats are under threat due to wetland degradation, drainage, and urban development. In Türkiye, the rapid loss of wetlands poses a significant risk not only to the Common Redshank but also to many other shorebird species.