Knot
Calidris canutus
Tap image to enlarge · Wikimedia Commons
Overview
The knot flocks on the Ribble Estuary are among the largest wader gatherings in Europe. The Ribble is designated a Ramsar site partly because of these birds. At high tide they form dense silver-grey clouds that roll and twist in the sky — a phenomenon called a murmuration equivalent for waders. In summer plumage (April–May) birds develop a rich brick-red breast. They breed on the high Arctic tundra and the Sefton Coast is one of their key UK wintering grounds.
At a Glance
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Scolopacidae |
| Habitat | Estuary · Mudflat · Coastal lagoon |
| Diet | Bivalves, crustaceans, marine worms on mudflats |
| UK population | Around 320,000 wintering birds — the Ribble Estuary holds one of the UK's largest concentrations |
| Sefton Coast | 100,000+ on the Ribble Estuary at peak — the aerial murmurations are among the greatest wildlife spectacles in England |
| Conservation | UK Red List |
Where to See It
Ribble Estuary and Hesketh Out Marsh. High tide roosts push birds up onto Marshside lagoons. Best views at high tide when they pack tightly.
Identification
Stocky, compact wader. Pale grey in winter with straight medium-length bill. In summer, bright brick-red below. Dumps in tight flocks.
Viewing & Photography Tips
2 hours before high tide on the Ribble. They feed on the mudflats then roost as the tide pushes them off. Frodsham or Marshside banks for close roost views.
Conservation Status
UK Red List
This species is on the UK Red List for Birds (BoCC5), indicating serious concern about its population decline or unfavourable conservation status. Monitoring this species on the Sefton Coast contributes to national population tracking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I see Knot murmurations on the Sefton Coast?
The Ribble Estuary holds one of England's largest Knot flocks — 100,000+ birds at peak. The aerial murmurations at high tide are visible from the Hesketh Out Marsh sea wall and from Marshside RSPB. Arrive 2 hours before high tide.
Why is the Ribble Estuary important for Knot?
The Ribble Estuary is designated a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance partly because of its Knot population. The mudflats provide critical feeding grounds for birds wintering from Arctic breeding sites in Greenland, Canada and Siberia.
Related Species
Plan your visit to the Sefton Coast
Marshside RSPB, Formby pinewoods, Ainsdale NNR — practical guides to getting there, what to bring, and the best spots for each season.