ODNR Division of Wildlife - A to Z Species Guide - Hudsonian Godwit

 Hudsonian Godwit

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This is an uncommon migrant, occurring almost exclusively in the fall. Spring migrants are extremely rare, as this species engages in an elliptical migration route that takes them west of the Mississippi River in the spring, and east of the river in the fall. In fall, many adults fly nonstop from Canada to South America, completely overflying Ohio. 


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Hudsonian Godwit
Limosa haemastica

At-a-Glance

• Incubation: 22-25 days

• Clutch Size: 4 eggs

• Young Fledge: 30 days after hatching

• Typical Foods: aquatic invertebrates, seeds, and fruit
Description
The best distinguishing characteristic of this shorebird is its long, upturned bill that is pink at the base and dark at the tip. In breeding plumage, it has a barred, chestnut breast and belly and mottled brown wings and back.

Habitat and Habits
The Hudsonian godwit is a species of open mudflats. It often feeds in deep water just beyond the exposed mud. The song, heard only on Arctic breeding grounds, is a hurried, high-pitched three-noted laugh-like sound. Calls are two-noted and sound like a squeeze toy.

Reproduction and Care of the Young
Godwits breed in the north (Alaska), where they nest in a shallow depression in the ground.