Stilt Sandpiper (Help with ID)

[Mike Delgado]

Shot taken at Merrit Island Refuge. I think it's a Stilt sandpiper, can anybody confirm?

[Daniel Cadieux]

Moved to Avian: About Birds forum.

This is a dowitcher. Not sure if it is Short-billed or Long-billed as they are difficult to tell apart visually.

[Wayne Richardson]

Hi Mike

[QUOTEShot taken at Merrit Island Refuge. I think it's a Stilt sandpiper, can anybody confirm?[/QUOTE]

I agree with Daniel that this is not a Stilt Sandpiper, but actually a Short-billed Dowitcher.

Merritt Island is a good location for Stilt Sandpipers & they superficially resemble both (larger) dowitchers. However, the following winter plumage ID features to look for are:

1. All black & thinner de-curved bill;
2. Thinner legs & more length above 'knee';
3. No spotting/bars on underparts;
4. No bars on tail feathers;
5. Softer/paler 'dove-grey' upperparts.

Cheers: Wayne

PS: Your bird has broader white bars on tail than dark & this feature eliminates Long-billed Dowitcher!