The common redshank (Tringa totanus) is an eye-catching and loud archipelago wader. It nests on islets everywhere in the archipelago, as well as on forested islands with headland meadows. Additionally, it also nests in bay meadows. The common redshank likes to build its nest near tern and gull colonies for protection.
Common redshanks can be seen nesting on an islet on the eastern side of Seurasaari island, which used to be the site of traditional Midsummer bonfires. Nowadays the islet is inhabited by Arctic terns. Common redshanks also nest on similar islets around the Pihlajasaari islands. Once the chicks hatch, both parents become very alert, sounding their shrill, piercing warning calls: ‘kjiiv-kjiiv-kjyy-kjiiv.’