Black-tailed Godwit (Limosa limosa) – Gujarat, India

Description

This original wildlife photograph features a Black-tailed Godwit (Limosa limosa), an elegant long-legged wader known for its long, slightly upturned bill and distinctive black-and-white tail pattern. The species is a notable wetland bird and a winter migrant in India, making Gujarat an important region for observing this migratory shorebird.

The Black-tailed Godwit can be identified by its long bill, long legs and characteristic plumage. In flight, it shows a contrasting white wing stripe, white rump and black tail. Its long bill is specially adapted for probing wet soils and shallow water while searching for food.

Black-tailed Godwit in Gujarat

The Black-tailed Godwit is recorded as a winter visitor in Gujarat, where it can occur in suitable wetlands and other appropriate habitats. Historical Gujarat bird records describe it as a common winter visitor occurring across the state.

Its association with wetlands makes the species an excellent subject for birdwatchers, wildlife photographers, wetland researchers and conservation enthusiasts.

Product Details

• Common Name: Black-tailed Godwit
• Scientific Name: Limosa limosa
• Bird Group: Wader / Shorebird
• Family: Scolopacidae
• Behaviour: Natural Behaviour
• Location: Gujarat, India
• Status in Gujarat: Winter Migrant / Winter Visitor
• Habitat: Wetlands, marshes, mudflats, shallow water and flooded areas
• Diet: Mainly aquatic and terrestrial invertebrates, insects and other small prey
• Global Conservation Status: Near Threatened (NT)
• Indian Protection: Schedule II
• Indian Conservation Priority: High Priority
• Photographer: Amarjeetsinh Jhala
• Photography Type: Bird & Wildlife Photography

Conservation Status

According to the State of India’s Birds 2025, the Black-tailed Godwit is classified as Near Threatened (NT) globally and listed under Schedule II of India’s wildlife protection framework. The species is also given High Conservation Priority in India. The 2025 assessment reports a rapid long-term decline as well as a rapid current annual decline, highlighting the importance of suitable wetland habitats for the species.

Photography Licensing

This Black-tailed Godwit (Limosa limosa) photograph is available for licensing for different applications.

Personal Use: Suitable for private collections, home décor and personal projects.

Commercial Use: Suitable for advertising, websites, digital marketing, promotional material and other commercial applications.

Printing & Publication: Suitable for books, magazines, calendars, field guides, printed publications, exhibitions and other professional publishing requirements.