Stilt Sandpiper (Calidris himantopus), Gilbert Water Ranch, Maricopa County

This Stilt Sandpiper was discovered and photographed by Tracy McCarthey on 20 March 2012

Rare spring migrant with most records in late April and May.  This may be the earliest record for the state.  A few do winter occassionally in California. 

Uniform brownish-gray of basic plumaged bird, with no barring or speckling on feathers. Long, yellow-green legs, not bright yellow. Heavy, slightly drooping bill. Prominent eyeline.

20 March 2012, photo by Tracy McCarthey

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