Let's give it another go: shorebird ID!

I don't want to overuse your shorebird ID skills, but I learned so much from the discussions that resulted of my latest posts here that I just can't resist. I seriously printed each of these threads and added them to my book library.

Here is another one that was shot in Northeast Alberta (Bonnyville to be exact : https://maps.google.com/maps?q=Jessi...+Lake&t=m&z=15) on Oct 15. A quick look at the colors and shape reminded me of a Least I posted last year (http://www.birdphotographers.net/for...rebird-%28!%29). But then I remembered thinking to myself while sinking in the mud (seriously) that these were a tad larger than Leasts. So I decided to dig in a little and got confused especially by the color at the base of the bill and the clear yellow legs. Now, because of these 2 points, I'm leaning toward Pectoral.

Have I got it right? Have I spotted the distinctive marks? Have I missed something!

Thanks again for your instructive input.

Attachment 134704

Congratulations P-A, you correctly identified this species as being Pectoral Sandpiper thanks to the fieldmarks that you nicely picked out (including the size relative to Least).

Now, can you age the bird?

When I get it right and no one disagrees, these threads tend to be less entertaining :S3:

At least another challenge: aging. I'm not familiar at all with this specie, but the bits I know about shorebirds tend to mention that at this time of the year, adults show much more wearing on their plumage than juveniles which have crispier patterns. I would expect to see less of the white fringes on the feathers of a worn adult. Plus it let me get quite close, so I suspect the innocence of a youngster.

Therefore I'd put my money on a 2013 edition.

So the verdict is.... ? :S3:

Juvie it is...you're getting good at this!

Getting good cues and tips helps alot! Thanks