Common name: Terek Sandpiper
Scientific name: Xenus cinereus
Family: Scolopacidae

Size:
Body length: 22–25 cm
Wingspan: 38–42 cm
Weight: 55–120 g

Identification:
A distinctive medium-sized wader recognized by its slightly upturned bill and relatively long yellowish-green legs. The upperparts are grey-brown while the underparts are white. In flight, it shows a pale wing stripe and a clean white rump. Its unique bill shape and active feeding behavior make it easy to identify among shorebirds.

Habitat:
Mudflats, estuaries, coastal lagoons, mangroves, tidal shores, and shallow wetlands.

Status in the UAE:
Common passage migrant and winter visitor, especially along coastal wetlands and mudflats.

Status in Lebanon:
Passage migrant along coastal wetlands and suitable shoreline habitats.

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

Behavior:
Very active while feeding, often running quickly through shallow water and probing with its upturned bill. Frequently sweeps the bill side to side while searching for prey. Usually found singly or in small groups, sometimes mixed with other waders. Agile and constantly moving.

Conservation status:
Least Concern (IUCN Red List)