Lesser Yellowlegs

The lesser yellowlegs, Tringa flavipes, is a medium-sized shorebird, a graceful creature of the wetlands. It measures 23–25 cm in length, with a wingspan of 59–64 cm, and weighs between 67–94 g. Both sexes share a similar plumage, which in breeding season is a mottled tapestry of gray-brown, black, and white on the upperparts, and a snowy white below adorned with brown streaks across the breast and neck. In its non-breeding attire, it dons a more uniform gray-brown cloak. Its legs, as its name suggests, are a striking yellow.

Identification Tips

When identifying the lesser yellowlegs, look for its yellow legs, which are a key distinguishing feature. The bill is shorter than that of its cousin, the greater yellowlegs, roughly the same length as its head, slim, straight, and dark. During breeding, its breast is streaked, and the flanks exhibit fine barring.

Habitat

The lesser yellowlegs favors clearings near ponds within the boreal forests, a habitat that stretches from Alaska to Quebec. These areas provide the seclusion and resources necessary for breeding and feeding.

Distribution

This bird is a seasoned traveler, migrating from its breeding grounds in North America to winter along the Gulf coast of the United States, the Caribbean, and as far south as South America. It is also a regular vagrant to western Europe, with a few birds reaching Great Britain annually, primarily between August and October.

Behaviour

The lesser yellowlegs is a vigilant bird, often seen foraging in shallow waters. It is known for its soft call, which is less strident than that of the greater yellowlegs. This species is also noted for its migration patterns and has been observed as an occasional overwintering guest in Great Britain.

Song & Calls

The call of the lesser yellowlegs is a gentle series of notes, softer in tone compared to the more robust calls of the greater yellowlegs.

Breeding

Nests are discreetly placed depressions on dry, mossy ground, often well-concealed. The typical clutch consists of four eggs, which are buff or gray-brown with varied brown spotting. Both parents share the duty of incubation, which lasts for 22-23 days. The precocial chicks are quick to leave the nest, capable of feeding themselves shortly after hatching, and take flight within 23 to 31 days.

Similar Species

The lesser yellowlegs is often mistaken for the greater yellowlegs due to their similar appearance. However, it can be differentiated by its shorter bill and smaller stature. It is more closely related to the willet, with breeding plumage revealing the fine and dense neck pattern that hints at their kinship.

Diet and Feeding

A diverse diet sustains the lesser yellowlegs, which includes insects like flies, beetles, and mayflies, as well as small fish, crustaceans, aquatic worms, molluscs, spiders, and seeds. It forages in shallow waters, sometimes stirring the water with its bill to unearth prey.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List currently classifies the lesser yellowlegs as Least Concern, indicating a stable population without immediate threats to its survival.