The Greater Yellowlegs is a tall, long-legged sandpiper with bright yellow legs and a slightly upturned bill. It is notoriously alert and vocal, giving loud three- or four-note 'tew-tew-tew' calls when alarmed, and was historically called the 'tattler' or 'tell-tale' by hunters because it alarmed all other shorebirds. It actively runs after and herds fish in shallow water.
Habitat
Mudflats, marshes, and lake shores during migration
Diet
Small fish, aquatic invertebrates, and insects
How common
Common
Recent Greater Yellowlegs sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spot a Greater Yellowlegs? Identify it instantly.
Point Huck at any plant or animal and get an instant ID, rarity, and field notes — building your personal nature collection as you go.
Get Huck — free