Semipalmated Sandpiper (Calidris pusilla), Solar Power & Water Ponds, Yuma County

This Semipalmated Sandpiper was found and photographed by Brian Johnson on 21 June 2019

Semipalmated Sandpiper is a rare fall migrant throughout the state. This individual appears to represents the earliest fall record for Arizona.

The shorter, straight bill with a minimum of tapering at the tip, the 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.

21 June 2019, photo by Brian Johnson

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