Whimbrel (Numenius phaeopus), Glendale Recharge Ponds, Maricopa County

This Whimbrel was discovered by other birders whose names are unknown and then shown to and photographed by Nathan Williams on 29 April 2012.

Rare transient statewide except in the Lower Colorado River Valley where is it uncommon.  More frequent in spring. 

Large shorebird with dark legs and a fairly long decurved bill. Face shows pale supercilium contrasting with dark stripe through eye and a dark crown.

Note there five Semipalmated Plovers in the lower photo in front of the Whimbrels, a high number for Arizona.

29 April 2012, photo by Nathan Williams

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