Sanderlings are the most common little bird we see at the beach.
They dart along the water's edge looking for food and running from the waves.
They look much different as juveniles than they do with breeding plumage, which is a rich reddish-brown. You can always tell a Sanderling from most other peeps by his lack of a hind toe. This is what makes Sanderlings such great runners!
The Semipalmated Sandpiper is a bit smaller and has a less rounded head. But Semiplamated Sandpipers also have one fairly unique feature that sets them apart from the masses of little shorebirds - Semipalmated Sandpipers have partially webbed feet! The slightly webbed toes help him walk on mud.
Semipalmated sandpipers do have a hind toe, which is a way of distinguishing them from Sanderlings.
Great pics Sue! And thanks for the much-needed education. Shorebirds are tough- I have a ways to go when it comes to learning my IDs :) Maybe now I'll get around to posting my BwBTC pics. That's what's been holding me back- getting the IDs right.
ReplyDeleteSuper shots Susan of the 'clockwork' wader. Love watching its antics as it chases up and down the waters edge. FAB.
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