Another migratory wader which occurs on passage in Britain, although in small numbers. The bill is broad laterally, this is not usually apparent in the field but the length and distinctive downcurved tip are, likewise the head pattern. This species seems to breed in distinct regions of the Arctic tundra, usually marshy areas, and winters on a broad front from the Middle East and East Africa to Australia. The nearest breeding area is in northern Scandinavia, which accounts for British records, although it is generally quite a scarce bird.