UPLAND SANDPIPER

Referred to as the shorebird of the prairies, the Upland sandpiper (known as “uppies” to birders) spends little time near water and is an obligate grassland species.  It commonly perches on fence posts with wings raised after landing.  The call of the Upland sandpiper is unique and commonly referred to as a wolf whistle.  When frightened, it runs a short distance and then freezes in an attempt to blend into its background.

They have a relatively wide range, breeding as far north as Alaska and wintering as far south as Argentina.  They spend their winters in Northeastern Argentina, Uruguay, and Southern Brazil.