Species group · Birds

Shanks

WAnimals has 2 species of shank, all in the family Scolopacidae.

2 species
1 family
115 countries
85 parks
Weight
85 g – 290 g
Length
27 cm – 35 cm
Lifespan
9 – 17 years

Ranges calculated from the entries that record the figure, not from all 2.

All 2 species of shanks on WAnimals

Each one has its own full entry. This group does not replace them: it brings them together.

Conservation status

2 Least Concern

No species documented in this group is genuinely at risk according to the IUCN, with the data available today.

See the global conservation status

Where they live

Recorded in 115 countries. The ones with the most species in the group:

Where to see them

Did you know…

  • It runs through the shallows after small fish with its bill open.

    From Common Greenshank

  • It hunts on the run: instead of probing the mud like other waders, it chases fry and shrimp through shallow water in zigzag dashes, sometimes sweeping the water sideways with its bill.

    From Common Greenshank

  • Its fluting three-syllable call is one of the most characteristic sounds of the Spanish marshes in winter, and usually gives it away before it is seen.

    From Common Greenshank

  • It is among the first birds to give the alarm when an intruder appears on the marsh, which is why it is popularly known as the warden of the marshes.

    From Common Redshank

Ecosystems

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