In posture, shape, and habits this long-distance migrant is somewhat suggestive of a golden-plover. It stands upright, has long wings and proportionally long legs and a short, straight, thin bill. The plain buffy face, and beady black eye give this species a pigeon-headed look. In all plumages, the bright white underside of the wing, with a dark bar across the base of the primaries, is distinctive. Adult: Upperparts dark brown with pale feather edges. Face and underparts buff, fading to white on the belly and vent. Legs are bright orange-yellow. Juvenile: Similar to adult, but paler below. Feathers on upperparts have dark centers and narrow buff margins creating a distinctive scaly pattern. Legs are pale yellow. Looks very long-winged in flight, with deep, powerful wingbeats. Yellow legs and needle-like bill separate this species from superficially similar golden-plovers. Very similar juv. Ruff is larger, has a heavier slightly drooped bill, looks more hump-backed, and has a white "U" at the base of the tail in flight.

Length: 19 (cm) Wingspan: 41 (cm)

Voice:

Usually silent. Occasionally gives a gentle tu.

Habitat:

Breeds on tundra. Migrants use grassland, plowed fields, dry edges of marshes, beaches. Unlike most shorebirds, this species is rarely found in water or on wet mudflats.

Behavior:

Males form leks on breeding grounds, attracting females by flashing their white wing linings. May be found in migration with Upland, Pectoral, and White-rumped Sandpipers.

Feeding:

Feeds on terrestrial invertebrates.