Semipalmated Sandpiper (Calidris pusilla), Yuma, Yuma County

This Semipalmated Sandpiper was found and photographed by Matt Victoria on 23 July 2017

A rare, but regular, fall transient in Arizona.

These photos allow a good comparison of fall adult peeps, with the Semipalmated in the center, Western to the left and Least to the right. Semipalmated Sandpiper averages a shorter, more stout, and straight bill without any droop to the tip than Western Sandpiper in any plumage. Compared to Least Sandpiper, the bill is straighter and thicker, and the legs are black rather than yellow. The relatively 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.

23 July 2017, photo by Matt Victoria

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