Bar-Tailed Godwit

What am I?

One of the larger waders on the Essex shores, the bar-tailed godwit visits our shores during winter, either for the whole season or just as as stopover as they continue further south.

How to Identify Me

As they visit during winter, you’re most likely to see bar-tailed godwits in their speckled grey and brown plumage.

Bar-tailed godwits have a slightly upturned curve on their beak compared to black-tailed godwits. This can helpful to differentiate them if you can’t see the markings on their tails.

How Can You Help Me?

Make sure to give them lots of space if you see them foraging for food in the water.

During low tide is when bar-tailed godwits will have the most access to food, so take extra caution when the tide is out.

Also ensure to keep your ears and eyes peeled for distress calls or birds becoming aware of your presence.