Your wildlife photography guide.
Explore the ruff in detail, study its behavior, prepare your shots.
Where to observe and photograph the ruff in the wild
Learn where and when to spot the ruff 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 ruff’s behavior, helping you capture better wildlife images. Explore the full species profile for key information including description, habitat, active periods, and approach techniques.
Ruff
Scientific name: Calidris pugnax
IUCN Status: Least Concern
Family: SCOLOPACIDAE
Group: Birds
Sensitivity to human approach: Suspicious
Minimum approach distance: 30 m
Courtship display: April
Incubation: 20 à 22 jours
Hatchings: April
Habitat:
Wetlands and marshes
Activity period :
Primarily active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.
Identification and description:
The Ruff is a medium-sized wader bird, easily recognizable by its colorful plumage and relatively large size for a bird in its family. The male is particularly distinctive during the breeding season, with vibrant plumage ranging from brown and white to red and orange, and a large ruff that surrounds its head. Outside the breeding season, the male loses its bright colors and presents a more subdued plumage similar to the female.
This wader inhabits wetlands, marshes, and riverbanks across Europe and Asia. During the breeding season, males engage in spectacular courtship displays to attract females, including throat inflations and dances. The Ruff primarily feeds on small invertebrates and aquatic plants. It migrates south for the winter. While its population remains relatively stable, it is threatened by habitat loss due to the draining of wetlands and pollution.
Recommended lens:
300 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.
Photography tips:
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