Your wildlife photography guide.

Explore the common greenshank in detail, study its behavior, prepare your shots.

Where to observe and photograph the common greenshank in the wild

Learn where and when to spot the common greenshank in the wild, how to identify the species based on distinctive features, and what natural environments it inhabits. The WildlifePhotographer app offers tailored photography tips that reflect the common greenshank’s behavior, helping you capture better wildlife images. Explore the full species profile for key information including description, habitat, active periods, and approach techniques.

Common Greenshank

Scientific name: Tringa totanus


Common Greenshank

IUCN Status: Least Concern

Family: SCOLOPACIDAE

Group: Birds

Sensitivity to human approach: Suspicious

Minimum approach distance: 30 m

Courtship display: April

Incubation: 23 à 25 jours

Hatchings: April


Habitat:
Shorelines and coastal wetlands

Activity period :
Primarily active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.

Identification and description:
The Common Redshank is a medium-sized wader, easily recognizable by its long red legs and straight bill. Its plumage is typically gray-brown with shades of white on the belly and dark markings on the back and wings. During the breeding season, it displays brighter colors, especially on the head and chest, which become duller outside of this period. This wader is often seen in wetlands, marshes, estuaries, and lake shores, where it feeds mainly on small invertebrates, insects, and worms found by probing in the mud. The Common Redshank is a migratory bird that travels between its breeding grounds in Northern Europe and its wintering sites in Africa and Asia. While its population remains generally stable, the Common Redshank faces threats from habitat loss and pollution. It is sometimes considered a vulnerable species in certain regions.

Recommended lens:
300 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
Use a telephoto lens to capture images from a distance, respecting the discreet nature of the species. Photograph early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the Common Redshank is more active. Look for it in wetland areas: marshes, estuaries, and mudflats are its preferred habitats. Be patient and discreet to avoid disturbing its natural behavior. The Common Redshank is a species of Least Concern. Respect its natural habitat and minimize human disturbances.

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