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

Stilt Sandpiper is an extremely rare transient in Arizona in the spring (it is uncommon in the fall).  An astonishing flock of 21 Stilt Sandpipers was found by Noah Gaines on 17 May 2008 at the Gilbert Water Ranch.  They were photographed the same day by Michael Moore and Brendon Grice. 

Note the rusty markings on the head, heavy barring underneath, green legs and distinctive drooped bill. 

Submitting photos to AZFO does not constitute reporting a rare bird for consideration as an official record. To ensure that a record becomes official, details or photos of Sketch Details Species should be sent to the Editors of North American Birds and a full report of Review Species should be submitted to the Arizona Bird Committee. Most rare birds are under _documented and subsequent observers of a rarity are always encouraged to submit reports and additional photos, especially for birds that are challenging to identify.

17 May 2008, digiscoped photos by Michael Moore

 

 

17 May 2008, photos by Brendon Grice