Red-necked Stint vs Spoon-billed Sandpiper

In short

The most reliable field mark to distinguish the Red-necked Stint from the Spoon-billed Sandpiper is the bill shape: the Spoon-billed Sandpiper has a distinctive spoon-shaped bill, while the Red-necked Stint has a straight, slender bill. Both species exhibit rufous tones during breeding, but the Spoon-billed Sandpiper's unique bill is a key identifier.

Identification tips

• Bill shape: Spoon-billed Sandpiper has a spoon-shaped bill; Red-necked Stint has a straight, slender bill.
• Breeding plumage: Both have rufous tones, but check for the Spoon-billed Sandpiper's unique bill.
• Juvenile plumage: Spoon-billed Sandpiper juveniles may show more white on the face.

Plumage

Both species show rufous tones during the breeding season. However, the Spoon-billed Sandpiper may have more white on the face and darker markings on the head and ear coverts as juveniles, while the Red-necked Stint has a red neck and face with chestnut scapulars.