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Guide to Shorebird ID, Ageing & Sexing
About this Guide
Shorebirds - also known as waders - are easily observed by birdwatchers. But understanding their moult sequences and plumage variation takes some research, both in the field and at home.
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This website is intended to be a guide to the identification and ageing of shorebirds (waders) in the field, by observation of their plumage and bare part characteristics.
​Click here to head to our species-by-species guide to shorebird and wader identification.
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The guides have been written with a focus on some of the species of shorebird that breed and/or winter in the British Isles. Nevertheless, the principles of observing waders in the field explained here will apply to all species of shorebird, worldwide.
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