Ruff

Status Rare vagrant. One was collected at Cole Harbour, Halifax County. on 27 May 1892 (Piers 1894, 1915), and another at New Minas, Kings County, on 1 October 1928 (Smith 1938). Since 1959 Ruffs have appeared during 13 of 25 years. There have been seven spring birds, between 19 April and 30 May. A total of 17 fall migrants has appeared between 2 July and 25 October. All have been single birds, apart from a male and female on Sable Island between 19-25 July 1978.

Remarks In size the Ruff falls between the Lesser and Greater Yellowlegs, with which it frequently associates. Its legs are shorter, and its bill is shorter and stouter than either of the yellowlegs. It is perhaps more likely to be confused with the Pectoral Sandpiper. The legs of the Ruff vary from dull yellowish green to olive-green or flesh coloured. The male Ruff is considerably larger than the female (called a Reeve), 30 cm vs. 23 cm.