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Post by Janne on Nov 24, 2008 18:59:10 GMT -8
On Saturday, November 22 around noon this bird was spotted on the rocks on the lakeside of the the swimming lagoon (on the shore of Harrison Lake rather than on the shore of the lagoon) at Harrison Hot Springs. I believe it is a Western Sandpiper in winter plumage. It was about 6 1/2 to 7 inches long and had been there a long time by the looks of the number of droppings on the rock. The beak is a bit droopy on the end and the underside is pure white with streaking down the breast to make me think its a Western. However, it seems bigger than the one seen with rufus highlights on its back and seen along side a Killdeer in October. Here's the photo: ( I finally got photobucket to work). It was not found Sunday or today.  |
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Post by Gord on Nov 25, 2008 22:40:53 GMT -8
Janne, I think it might be a Dunlin. Western Sandpiper are a little scarce in the winter but certainly a possibility. I think this guy's bill is a big long but you are right, the colour is very similar. The feeling of it being a bit bigger would support a Dunlin too.
Dave should check to make sure it isnt a Curlew Sandpiper though (they're very similar but also very rare) ;D ;D ;D He's going to be very helpful on the Asian/Siberian migrants etc questions!
Great photo and good eye for birds!
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Post by Janne on Nov 27, 2008 0:38:47 GMT -8
Gord,
I originally identified it as a Dunlin without its flock. However, another person on the bird walk questioned it and after we did a lot of "bird booking" I doubted myself and put up the query as Western Sandpiper.
Janne
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