Sandpipers, Phalaropes, and Allies

Spotted sandpiper

Spotted Sandpiper

Look For The spotted sandpiper is one of the easiest sandpipers to identify. Not only are its markings distinctive, but also are its mannerisms—the bird species signals itself to birders by almost constantly bobbing its rear end. The thrush-like breast spotting of breeding adult spotted sandpipers sets them apart from other sandpipers, but you can …

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Wilson's phalarope

Wilson’s Phalarope

Look For Wilson’s phalarope, a member of the sandpiper family, is the largest of the three phalarope species. Distinguishing characteristics of Wilson’s phalarope include a very thin, straight bill; gray wings; poorly defined facial markings in nonbreeding plumage; and a pronounced white rump.  In breeding plumage, both sexes have dark lines extending from their eyes …

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