Habitat:
Wetlands and marshes

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

Identification and description:
The Wood Sandpiper is a medium-sized wader, recognizable by its elegant plumage that ranges from gray-green to white, with dark markings on the wings and sometimes a marbled head. This wader is primarily found in wet forests and marshy areas, where it feeds on small invertebrates, worms, and occasionally small fish, which it catches by probing in the mud and shallow water. During the breeding season, the male displays brighter colors, notably a darker head plumage and iridescent green shades on its back. Outside the breeding season, the Wood Sandpiper has a more subdued and uniform plumage, often gray-brown. As a migratory bird, it travels between its breeding grounds in Northern Europe and its wintering sites in Africa and Asia. Although its population remains relatively stable, the Wood Sandpiper faces threats from the loss of wetland habitats and pollution.

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 Wood Sandpiper 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 Wood Sandpiper is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN. Respect its natural habitat and minimize human disturbances