Photo: Ganesh Mohan T · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0
Shorebirds
Common Sandpiper
Actitis hypoleucos
The Eurasian counterpart to the Spotted Sandpiper, the Common Sandpiper is a regular vagrant to the western Aleutians and Pribilofs. Identified by its constant teetering motion, brown-washed upperparts, a distinctive white 'shoulder' notch, and clean white underparts. A sought-after shorebird for birders visiting Attu or St. Paul Island.
Where to look
Western Aleutians (Attu Island is the most reliable North American site); Pribilof Islands (St. Paul especially). Found along stream edges, lake shores, and coastal margins.
Habitat
Stream edges, lake shores, and coastal wetlands.
Diet
Aquatic insects, worms, small fish, and crustaceans.
Natural history note
Common Sandpiper adults share incubation duties but the male typically takes over sole care of the chicks while the female sometimes departs to find a new mate.