The Semipalmated Sandpiper is one of the most abundant shorebirds in North America, staging in flocks of hundreds of thousands at key sites such as the Bay of Fundy, where individuals gorge on amphipods before making a non-stop transoceanic flight to South America. Named for the partial webbing between its toes. Distinguishing it from the very similar Western Sandpiper is a classic challenge for birders.
Best time to see a Semipalmated Sandpiper
The best time to see a Semipalmated Sandpiper is May–August, when about 75% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 10,811 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Semipalmated Sandpiper? What bird is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Semipalmated Sandpiper sightings near you
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