Wader Touches Down For Brief Stint in Ireland

The arrival of the Little Stint (Calidris minuta) on Irish shores is a regular feature of late summer and autumn.

These sparrow-sized waders breed in Arctic Siberia and stop in Ireland to rest and feed before continuing south for the winter.

The Little Stint is sought after by birdwatchers. It has a compact frame, a fine bill, and a quick, darting feeding style. It often mingles with flocks of Dunlin, which makes it difficult to pick out in the field.

According to IrishBirding.com, two individuals were recorded today in County Wexford. One was at Tacumshin Lake, a site known for rare shorebirds, and another was at Carnsore Point.

In recent days there have also been reports from the Bann Estuary in County Derry and from Tramore in County Waterford. These sightings indicate that the autumn migration is underway.

More than 80 sightings of the species were recorded in Ireland during the second half of 2024.

Coastal mudflats and estuaries provide the best opportunities to see them as they feed on invertebrates before resuming their journey south.