How do you recognise a common redshank?

The common redshank (Latvian: Pļavu tilbīte, Tringa totanus) is a medium-sized wader. The guide's summary line sums it up: a wetland wader identified by red legs and a conspicuous white wing pattern. Its upperparts are brownish, its legs are orange-red, and its fairly straight bill has a reddish base. In flight, the broad white trailing edges of the wings stand out clearly. You will often hear the bird before you see it: its sharp, piping alarm calls draw attention well before it comes into view. Look for it in wet grasslands, marshes, and on shallow, muddy shores, where it picks and probes in soft mud and shallow water. Redshanks also frequently watch from raised perches, so a wader standing sentinel on a post or hummock near wet ground is worth checking for red legs.

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Redshanks
A short bird guide

How do you recognise a common redshank?

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