Sharp-tailed Sandpiper

Calidris acuminata is an Arctic-breeding sandpiper that regularly reaches New Zealand. It differs from pectoral sandpiper through its rufous cap, stronger eyebrow and less sharply divided breast pattern. Non-breeding birds are warm brown above with a pale eyebrow and streaked breast. Juveniles show especially crisp buff-edged upperparts and a bright chestnut crown.

It visits shallow wetlands and estuaries around both main islands in austral summer. Most birds are juveniles migrating from Siberian breeding grounds. It probes and pecks for insects, worms, seeds and small crustaceans. Birds often feed with red-necked stints and other small waders.

The New Zealand classification is Migrant. Lake Ellesmere Te Waihora and Pūkorokoro Miranda are dependable seasonal sites.