[2] This species and the Eurasian whimbrel have recently been split, based on genetic and noticeable morphological differences.

In the mangroves of Colombia, whimbrel roost sites are located in close proximity to feeding territories and away from potential sources of mainland predators, but not away from areas of human disturbance.

It is associated with the curlews because it appears to be derived from neos, "new" and mene "moon", referring to the crescent-shaped bill.

The whimbrel is smaller, has a shorter, decurved bill and has a central crown stripe and strong supercilia.

Near the end of the 19th century, hunting on their migration routes took a heavy toll on this bird's numbers; the population has since recovered.