Asian Dowitcher vs Long-billed Dowitcher

In short

The Asian Dowitcher and Long-billed Dowitcher are both medium-sized sandpipers with long bills, but they can be distinguished by their feeding behavior and plumage details. The Asian Dowitcher has a slightly shorter bill and lacks the white triangular patch above the tail seen in the Long-billed Dowitcher.

Identification tips

• Look for the white triangular patch above the tail in flight for Long-billed Dowitcher.
• Observe the feeding behavior: Long-billed Dowitcher shows a pronounced 'sewing machine' motion.
• Note the habitat: Asian Dowitchers are more likely in Asian coastal regions, whereas Long-billed Dowitchers are found in North American wetlands.
• Listen for calls: Long-billed Dowitchers have a distinctive call in flight.

Size

Both species are similar in size, but the Long-billed Dowitcher has a slightly longer bill relative to its head.

Plumage

The Long-billed Dowitcher shows a white triangular patch above the tail in flight, which the Asian Dowitcher lacks. The Asian Dowitcher has a more uniform grayish-brown appearance in non-breeding plumage.

Behaviour

The Long-billed Dowitcher is known for its 'sewing machine' feeding motion, which is less pronounced in the Asian Dowitcher.

Habitat

Asian Dowitchers are typically found in coastal mudflats and estuaries in Asia, while Long-billed Dowitchers breed in tundra regions and migrate to wetlands in North America.

Voice

The Long-billed Dowitcher emits a distinctive call in flight, which can help differentiate it from the Asian Dowitcher, though specific vocalization details for the Asian Dowitcher are less documented.