June 7, 2011

Least Sandpiper?

SDP  6-7-11
It took a bit of chasing, but I finally got a shot of this little fellow scooting around the celery fields in rural Sarasota County. After studying my 'Birds of Florida' field guide, I've decided it's a Least Sandpiper --- not a Western Sandpiper. The primary difference (to me) is that the Least Sandpiper has 'dull yellow legs', according to the guide, while the Western has black legs. Of course, there's a chance it's a Semipalmated Sandpiper, a Lesser Yellowlegs or a Sanderling. Ugh! So many shorebirds with so many similarities! For now, I'm calling it a Least Sandpiper. Anyone know for sure???

8 comments:

Michelle said...

I don't know for sure, but I can't imagine chasing him around trying to get a shot!

Kathy said...

Whatever he is, he's a cutiepie!

Dina said...

I struggle with the sandpipers as well so I don't have a firm answer. It's not a sanderling and I don't think it's a lesser yellowleg. I vote for Least Sandpiper as well.

Lois said...

I'm not sure either, but he is pretty! Sounds like you got some exercise chasing him around.

kat said...

At least you know it's a Sandpiper! haha I don't think we have those in Canada. Or maybe we do and I just don't hang along shorelines enough to see them. Quite the beak! - they must make fishing around for a snack in the sand easier.

Ernie said...

I can say without a doubt that it is most assuredly a...bird. :)

Jim Klenke said...

whatever it is, its cute. OK dumb question....celery field? I have only seen celery at the store.

Jack said...

Who are you calling the least sandpiper? This guy is strutting, puffing out his chest, and emitting a throaty warble. I believe he is sandpiper maximus.