Long-billed Curlew vs Slender-billed Curlew

The Long-billed Curlew is notably larger with a much longer, decurved bill compared to the Slender-billed Curlew, which has a shorter, slimmer bill. The Long-billed Curlew is more uniformly brown, while the Slender-billed Curlew is paler with distinctive heart-shaped markings on the flanks.

1. Bill Length and Shape: The Long-billed Curlew has a much longer, more curved bill. 2. Size: The Long-billed Curlew is larger overall. 3. Plumage: Look for the paler plumage and heart-shaped flank markings on the Slender-billed Curlew. 4. Vocalization: Listen for the higher-pitched, laughing trill of the Slender-billed Curlew. 5. Habitat: Consider the habitat; Long-billed Curlews are more likely in grasslands and mudflats.

The Long-billed Curlew is the largest North American shorebird, significantly larger than the Slender-billed Curlew, which is smaller and more delicate.

The Long-billed Curlew has a more uniform brown plumage, whereas the Slender-billed Curlew is paler with a white or pale buff ground color and distinctive heart-shaped dark markings on the breast and flanks.

Both species exhibit similar behaviors such as probing for food, but detailed behavioral observations are more limited for the Slender-billed Curlew.

The Long-billed Curlew is found in grasslands and tidal mudflats, while the Slender-billed Curlew's habitat preferences are less well-documented but include wetlands and open areas.

The Long-billed Curlew has a ringing 'curlew' call, while the Slender-billed Curlew's call is higher-pitched, shorter, and sometimes includes a laughing trill.