At first glance, a Whimbrel can be mistaken for a Curlew. However a Whimbrel is smaller, and has a shorter bill. It also has distinctive banded head pattern with pale striping above and below its eyes. Not shown clearly hear, the shade of brown is overall 'colder' than a curlew. This one was with a few others in the Pools at Druridge.

These two were flying in a flock of five over the beach. They were calling - their call is a quick repeating short whistle. I have also heard them calling from within the dunes (they are well hidden).