Your wildlife photography guide.

Explore the great knot in detail, study its behavior, prepare your shots.

Where to observe and photograph the great knot in the wild

Learn where and when to spot the great knot 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 great knot’s behavior, helping you capture better wildlife images. Explore the full species profile for key information including description, habitat, active periods, and approach techniques.

Great Knot

Scientific name: Calidris tenuirostris


Great Knot

IUCN Status: Vulnerable

Family: SCOLPACIDAE

Group: Birds

Sensitivity to human approach: Suspicious

Minimum approach distance: 30 m

Courtship display: June to July

Incubation: 20–23 jours

Hatchings: June to July


Habitat:
Wetlands, estuaries, sandy beaches

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

Identification and description:
The Great Knot is a medium-sized migratory bird belonging to the Scolopacidae family. It is recognizable by its speckled brown plumage and long, slender bill. During the breeding season, it displays more pronounced patterns on its back and chest. This bird breeds mainly in the Arctic regions of Siberia and migrates to the coasts of Australia and Southeast Asia for the winter. It frequents wetlands, estuaries, and sandy beaches where it primarily feeds on mollusks, crustaceans, and insects. The Great Knot is a vulnerable species due to habitat loss and human disturbances.

Recommended lens:
400mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
To photograph the Great Knot, it is advisable to use a telephoto lens of at least 400mm to capture detailed images from a distance. Choose times of the day when the light is soft, such as early morning or late afternoon, to avoid harsh shadows. Be patient and discreet, as this bird can be suspicious. Focus on natural habitats like estuaries and sandy beaches to observe its natural behavior. Use a tripod to stabilize your camera and achieve sharp images.

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