Ruff (Philomachus pugnax), Santa Cruz Flats, Pinal County

This Ruff was discovered and photographed by Richard Fray on 08 January 2010. 

There are five previously accepted records of Ruff in Arizona with three additional documented reports pending with the Arizona Bird Committee.

In basic plumage, Ruff is one of the more nondescript shorebirds. Its overall plain drab appearance is itself a field mark because it lacks many of the distinctive field marks of other shorebirds. Its shape is very distinctive with a plump body and small head. The straight, medium length stout bill is another good field mark as are the orangish legs. In flight, Ruff has a diagnostic U-shaped white rump patch.

08 January 2010, photo by Richard Fray

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