Calidris mauri
Migrant Western Sandpipers are found in the same areas as Semipalmated and Least sandpipers, and they frequently mingle with both these species. The Western Sandpiper's arctic breeding grounds are farther west than those of the Semipalmated and Least sandpipers, however, and it is more likely to migrate through the western Rockies. The challenge of identifying 'peeps' awaits the interested birder at a variety of moist habitats during the spring and fall migrations. Even if the subtleties of plumage are not your primary interest, a morning spent with shuffling sandpipers will prove to be enjoyable. |
I.D.: Sexes similar: long, black, slightly downcurved bill; black legs. Breeding: rusty crown, ear and wing patches; V-shaped streaking on the upper breast and flanks; light underparts. Non-breeding: gray-brown upperparts; white underparts; white eyebrow. In flight: narrow, white wing stripe; white rump is split by a black line. Size: L 6-7 in. (15-18 cm). Range: common fall migrant and uncommon spring migrant in the Colorado Rockies; rare to uncommon migrant elsewhere in the Rockies. Habitat: mudflats and shorelines of ponds and lakes up to the montane. Nesting: in the Arctic; on a small mound or tussock; in a slight depression lined with grass, moss and leaves, occasionally domed by surrounding, arching vegetation; pair incubates 4 eggs for 20-22 days. Feeding: gleans the substrate and probes quickly into soft mud and shallow water; occasionally submerges its head while probing; eats primarily aquatic insects, worms and crustaceans. Voice: flight call is a high-pitched cheep. Similar Species: Semipalmated Sandpiper: shorter, straight bill. Dunlin black belly, darker upper breast and wider, white wing stripe in breeding plumage. Least Sandpiper: smaller; light-colored legs. |
