Great Knot in the hand, February. Note the long bill, dark streaking on forehead, faint markings within the supercilium ('eyebrow') and the appearance of the first large breeding plumage spots on the breast. Photo: Adrian Boyle.
A first-winter Great Knot. Again, the bill is noticeably longer than that of the Red Knot, and the crown and forehead are heavily streaked. Markings on the breast are finer than might be expected on and adult. Photo: Brent Stephenson.
A first-winter Great Knot roosting amongst Red Knots and Bar-tailed Godwits. This bird would be picked out by its body size, being intermediate between a Red Knot and a male godwit. Photo: Brent Stephenson.
An adult Great Knot on migration near Shanghai, China. Note the heavy dark markings on the breast and flanks. This bird lacks the red scapulars that can be found on some individuals. Photo: Adrian Boyle.
Another Great Knot on migration in China, showing some red scapulars. Photo: Phil Battley.