Plover ID

[allanrube]

I was wondering how, if you took this shot, would decide whether the bird was a black-bellied or American Golden Plover. It was the only one around so I can't use size to help.

http://www.smugmug.com/photos/370936761_JsHiV-L.jpg

[Paul Lagasi]

Hi Allan
First off let me say..juvenile Black-Bellied and Golden Plovers have been tough for me earlier in my birding life..but according to Sibley's, this is a juvenile
Black-Bellied Plover:

A) Heavy Bill
B) White Belly
C) Streaked Breast

If you saw this bird flying the best way to tell is Black-Bellied plovers have a black spot very visible when flying, under the wing, where wing meets body, Golden Plovers do not. Very nice photo, wish for a little more head turn....Paul

[allanrube]

Thanks Paul. I looked in Sibley's after I read your post and also notice the cap of its head would have to be darker to be a golden. I had looked in Shorebirds of NA by Dennis Paulson which wasn't helping me.

Guess this shows an example when having several guide books is a good idea.