Wattled Jacana vs Upland Sandpiper

In short

The Wattled Jacana and Upland Sandpiper are distinct in both appearance and habitat preference. The Wattled Jacana is a waterbird with striking black and chestnut plumage, while the Upland Sandpiper is a grassland bird with a more muted, streaked brown appearance. Their habitats rarely overlap, making location a key identification factor.

Identification tips

1. Location: Check the habitat; wetlands suggest Wattled Jacana, grasslands suggest Upland Sandpiper. 2. Plumage: Look for the red wattle and contrasting black and chestnut colors on the Jacana. 3. Size and Shape: The Upland Sandpiper is larger and more elongated. 4. Behavior: Observe their movement; Jacanas walk on floating vegetation, Sandpipers on open ground.

Size

The Upland Sandpiper is generally larger and more elongated than the Wattled Jacana.

Plumage

The Wattled Jacana features a combination of black and chestnut plumage with a distinctive red wattle on its forehead. In contrast, the Upland Sandpiper has a streaked brown and buff appearance, lacking any bright facial features.

Behaviour

Wattled Jacanas are often seen walking on floating vegetation in wetlands, while Upland Sandpipers are typically found walking or standing in open grasslands.

Habitat

Wattled Jacanas inhabit wetlands with floating vegetation, whereas Upland Sandpipers prefer open grasslands and fields, often far from water.

Voice

The vocalizations of these species are quite different, with the Wattled Jacana having a more varied and musical call compared to the Upland Sandpiper's more mechanical and repetitive whistles.