Sharp-tailed Sandpiper (Calidris acuminata), juvenileWhat a spot in the ocean to look, and hope for, migrating Asian species. Here's one found this morning. It's been listed as a vagrant in the past on Tern I.
This "peep" breeds in northern Siberia and winters primarily in Australia, with smaller numbers in New Guinea and New Zealand.
Birdwatchers use an umbrella title of "Peeps" for small, extremely difficult to identify, birds that often are found in large numbers on mudflats, shorelines, and shallow standing waters locales. Sandpipers are generally included in this catagory.
This particular "peep" is quite distinguishable. Chestnut-colored cap, white "eyebrow" stripe, yellow legs.... not that these characteristics are brightly discernable to you guys from this photo.
In addition to their small size they are very active.
This spp. may even be smaller than an albatross egg.
Smaller than the grass, its a bit of a disappearing artist as well.
Very difficult to get a picture of. Great, bright binocular views.
An Asian species, this is the first time I have seen a Sharp-tailed Sandpiper.
No philosophy, musings, or additional commentary on life and the living. Just wanted to share an exciting new bird. The smallest bird on the island. Yes, we have many Ruddy Turnstones (Arenaria interpres) on this island. The "ruddies" now get to push someone around.
Well, some.....one.
-mwyork
2 comments:
Matt,
Congratulations on finding the glass float. I know what it means.
Congrats too on meeting the new sandpiper. No philosophical musings today is quite alright. Just enjoying such wonderful discoveries is wonder enough.
bd
Matt,
Love the "old friends" picture.
thanks for sharing it.
bd
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