Upland Sandpiper

The Upland Sandpiper, Bartramia longicauda, is a rather distinctive member of the sandpiper family, bearing a closer relation to curlews. This species, sometimes referred to by its older monikers such as the Upland Plover or Bartram's Sandpiper, presents a unique profile with its small, dove-like head perched atop a lengthy neck. Its back and wings are intricately marbled with black and brown, while the neck and breast are streaked with dark brown, extending to the flanks. A white belly and undertail coverts contrast sharply with the long tail. Observers will note the white eye-ring and the long yellow legs that round out its identifying features.

Identification Tips

When identifying the Upland Sandpiper, look for its small head, long neck, and the distinctive marbling on its back. The streaked neck and breast, white underparts, and notably long tail are key characteristics. The white eye-ring and yellow legs are also helpful markers for identification.

Habitat

Contrary to what one might expect from a sandpiper, the Upland Sandpiper favors open country with tall grasses over coastal regions. It can also be found in man-made environments such as airports, blueberry farms, and abandoned strip mines, particularly in the eastern United States. Its core range, however, lies in the northern Midwest.

Distribution

The breeding range of the Upland Sandpiper extends from eastern Alaska, southeast of the Rocky Mountains, through to parts of Canada and down to northern Oklahoma, with pockets of populations in northeast Oregon and west central Idaho. Come winter, they migrate to northeastern Argentina, Uruguay, and southern Brazil. This species is an extremely rare visitor to the South Pacific, with sparse records in Australia and New Zealand.

Behaviour

The Upland Sandpiper is often seen foraging in fields, relying on sight to pick up food. It's not uncommon to spot them perched on fence posts or even telephone poles. Upon landing, they characteristically hold their wings aloft for a few moments. Vigilant and alert, these birds are always scanning for potential threats.

Song & Calls

The call of the Upland Sandpiper is quite distinctive, often described as a "wolf whistle." It consists of a long, ascending whistle followed by a second call that may rise or fall. These calls are typically heard as the bird lands or while it soars high in the sky.

Breeding

During the breeding season, which spans early to late summer, Upland Sandpipers may form small, loose colonies. Nests are well-concealed on the ground amidst dense grass. The female lays a clutch of 4 eggs, with both parents sharing the responsibility of caring for the young. They are also known to perform distraction displays to protect their offspring from predators.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Upland Sandpiper is varied, including insects such as grasshoppers, crickets, weevils, beetles, moths, ants, flies, and various arthropods like centipedes, millipedes, spiders, snails, and earthworms. They also consume a small amount of grains and seeds.

Conservation status

The Upland Sandpiper's population experienced a rise with the clearing of forests in the 19th century but later faced a sharp decline due to hunting. While they are now regularly present in the Midwest, their numbers are scattered in the east. Habitat loss, particularly the decline of prairie regions, is a significant concern for their conservation. Additionally, livestock grazing has been shown to negatively impact nesting, while controlled burns may be beneficial by exposing low-growing plants that the birds feed on.