Image via Macaulay Library
Greater Yellowlegs
- Scientific name
- Tringa melanoleuca
- Family
- Scolopacidae
- Conservation status
- Least concern
- Habitat
- Wetland marsh
- Wing shape
- Long
- Tail shape
- Pointed
Where it came from
The Greater Yellowlegs (Tringa melanoleuca) is a large North American shorebird belonging to the Scolopacidae family. Historically categorized by naturalists in the 18th and 19th centuries during the era of intensive ornithological exploration, the species was classified for its distinctive long, bright yellow legs and its role as a migratory sentinel in wetland ecosystems. It evolved to inhabit subarctic bogs during breeding seasons, migrating long distances to southern coastal and freshwater habitats.
The species' physical design is a masterclass in functional adaptation, characterized by a slender, slightly upturned bill and a long, graceful neck. Ornithologists often highlight its specific wing and tail morphology, where the long, pointed wings facilitate high-speed, long-distance flight, and the pointed tail aids in precise maneuvering during aerial displays. It has been a subject of significant ecological study, prized by birdwatchers for its loud, piercing vocalizations and skittish, alert behavior.
Generated by Pi, the collecto.rs collecting companion
Who's collecting this
Real birds collectors on collecto.rs who have this in their public collection.
About Greater Yellowlegs
Greater Yellowlegs is a bird in the Birdwatching catalog on collecto.rs. Catalog data is sourced from eBird. No public birds collectors track this one yet — adding yours would make you the first on collecto.rs.
How many collectors track Greater Yellowlegs on collecto.rs?
Greater Yellowlegs doesn't have any public collectors on collecto.rs yet. Sign up to add it and become the first.
Can I track my own copy of Greater Yellowlegs?
Yes. collecto.rs is free — sign up to log your bird, upload photos, record condition, edition, and acquisition cost, and connect with other birdwatching collectors. Your collection stays private by default.
Where does the Greater Yellowlegs catalog entry come from?
The catalog entry for Greater Yellowlegs is sourced from eBird. Catalog-level facts stay consistent across every collector; your own data (condition, edition, acquisition notes) is yours.
Is collecto.rs birds tracking free?
Yes. Tracking your birds is free — no paid tier required to catalog items, upload photos, or share your collection.
Track every bird you own
Free. Fun. Collection photos, notes, organization, value tracking, friends — all in one place.
Sign up free
