Semipalmated Sandpiper (Calidris pusilla), Slop pond Painted Rock Rd., Maricopa County

This Semipalmated Sandpiper was photographed by Charles Babbitt on 25 August 2012

A rare, but regular, fall transient in Arizona.  Usually associates with other peeps. 

Generally a black legged, grayish, short billed peep.  The short, straight bill, black legs, the lack of heavier black streaking or chevrons on the lower flanks, the short wing projection, and the lack of rufous edging on the back, scapulars, crown, and ear coverts all point to Semipalmated and away from any of the similar species.

Black arrows point to Semipalmated Sandpiper.  Second photo shows comparison with a Western Sandpiper to the right.  Bottom photo includes three species of peeps. From left to right:  Western, Semipalmated, Least.  Note that the Western in this photo is probably a female because it has a fairly long bill for that species and the Semipalmated is likely a male since it has a short bill, even for a Semipalmated.  The difference in bill length is often not as great as shown by these two individuals. 

25 August 2012, photo by Charles Babbitt

All photos are copyrighted© by photographer