Birds of North Carolina
their Distribution and Abundance
Scientific Name:
Common Name:
 Family (Alpha):
SCOLOPACIDAE Members: Black-tailed Godwit 249
General Comments
This Eurasian species is quite spectacular, though it can easily be overlooked as, or confused with, its Nearctic counterpart -- the Hudsonian Godwit. In the state, the Black-tailed Godwit is an accidental visitor, with three records: one photographed at Bodie Island lighthouse pond, 27 Dec 1979 - 12 Jan 1980* (Chat 45:13-14); one at Pea Island, 24-31 Jul 1994* (Chat 59:76); and far inland at the Cherry Hospital grounds near Goldsboro on 23 Sep 1999*, associated with Hurricane Floyd (Chat 64:70).
Breeding Status
Nonbreeder
NC BRC List
Definitive
State Status
none
U.S. Status
Definitive
State Rank
SA
Global Rank
G4
Coastal Plain
Three records (see above).
Piedmont
No records.
Mountain
No records.
Finding Tips
This species looks similar to a Hudsonian Godwit in basic plumage. Black-taileds are larger overall, have an essentially straight bill, and seem more "elegant" at rest. However, you should see one in flight to clinch the identification, as the wide white wing stripe and white underwing linings are quite striking. A "Hudsonian" seen in late fall or winter should be carefully checked for this species.