Common name: Common Redshank
Scientific name: Tringa totanus
Family: Scolopacidae

Size:
Body length: 27–29 cm
Wingspan: 47–53 cm
Weight: 110–150 g

Identification:
A medium-sized wader with long, bright red legs and a straight to slightly upturned red bill tipped in black. Plumage is grey-brown with fine streaking on the upperparts and paler underparts. In flight, it shows a prominent white rump and a bold white wing stripe, making it easy to identify. Its upright stance and constant alert posture are characteristic.

Habitat:
Wetlands, estuaries, salt marshes, mudflats, coastal lagoons, and shallow inland waters. Prefers open areas with soft substrate for feeding.

Status in the UAE:
Common winter visitor and passage migrant. Regularly observed in coastal wetlands, mangroves, and tidal mudflats.

Diet:
Carnivorous — feeds on insects, crustaceans, mollusks, worms, and other small invertebrates.

Behavior:
Active and vocal, often seen wading in shallow water while foraging. Known for its loud, sharp calls, especially when alarmed. Acts as an early warning system for other birds. Usually seen singly or in small groups, but may gather in larger flocks during migration.

Conservation status:
Least Concern (IUCN Red List), but declining in parts of its range