Greater Prairie-Chicken vs Upland Sandpiper

In short

The Greater Prairie-Chicken and Upland Sandpiper are easily distinguished by their size and habitat preferences. The Greater Prairie-Chicken is a robust, ground-dwelling grouse, while the Upland Sandpiper is a slender, long-legged shorebird. Their plumage and behavior are also notably different.

Identification tips

1. Location and Habitat: Look for Greater Prairie-Chickens in native prairies and grasslands, while Upland Sandpipers are often found in open fields and pastures. 2. Size and Shape: Note the stocky build and rounded wings of the Greater Prairie-Chicken compared to the slender, long-legged appearance of the Upland Sandpiper. 3. Plumage: Observe the barred pattern and orange air sacs of the Greater Prairie-Chicken versus the streaked brown and white plumage of the Upland Sandpiper. 4. Behavior: Watch for lekking behavior in Greater Prairie-Chickens and perching or fluttering flight in Upland Sandpipers. 5. Calls: Listen for the booming calls of the Greater Prairie-Chicken and the 'wolf whistle' of the Upland Sandpiper.

Size

The Greater Prairie-Chicken is larger and stockier compared to the more slender and long-legged Upland Sandpiper.

Plumage

The Greater Prairie-Chicken has a barred brown and white plumage with distinctive orange air sacs visible during displays, whereas the Upland Sandpiper has a more uniform brown and white plumage with a streaked appearance and lacks any air sacs.

Behaviour

Greater Prairie-Chickens are often seen in leks on the ground, performing elaborate courtship displays. In contrast, Upland Sandpipers are more likely to be seen perched on fence posts or flying with a distinctive fluttering flight.

Habitat

Greater Prairie-Chickens inhabit grasslands and prairies, while Upland Sandpipers prefer open grasslands, often near wetlands or agricultural fields, and are adaptable to various open habitats.

Voice

The Greater Prairie-Chicken is known for its booming calls during lek displays, whereas the Upland Sandpiper has a distinctive, melodic 'wolf whistle' call.