Calidris ptilocnemis 8-9″ (20-23 cm). In breeding plumage suggests a Dunlin, with rusty back, black splotch on breast (but the Dunlin is redder, with black splotch lower down, black legs; see ). In winter, similar to the Purple Sandpiper of the Atlantic, but paler. Stocky and slaty, with a white belly, white wing stripe. Legs dull yellow or greenish. Its rock-feeding associates, the Black Turnstone and the Surfbird, both show a broad white band across the base of the tail.

Voice: A flicker-like du-du-du. When breeding, a trill.

Range: Ne. Siberia, w. Alaska; winters along coast to California Map .

Habitat: Rocky shores; nests on mossy tundra.

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