Pectoral Sandpiper

Calidris melanotos is an uncommon long-distance vagrant to New Zealand. It differs from sharp-tailed sandpiper through its sharply bordered streaked breast and usually duller crown. It is brown above with a heavily streaked breast ending abruptly against a white belly. The bill is slightly downcurved and often yellowish at the base.

Records occur at wetlands and estuaries across New Zealand, mainly during migration seasons. The species breeds in Arctic North America and Siberia. It probes soft mud for insects, worms and crustaceans. Individuals often associate with other migratory sandpipers.

The New Zealand classification is Vagrant. Lake Ellesmere Te Waihora and Pūkorokoro Miranda produce records, but none is guaranteed.