Posted by Robin Diaz on August 06, 2002 at 18:14:04:
I need help from all you shorebirdophiles. A quick scan of Crandon Flats this afternoon at 2 PM found a distinctly different shorebird. It was <2 minute view at ~35X, then the bird flew. Armed with scope, bins and camera I tried to relocate it. After 20 minutes, nasty lightning, rain and hail halted the expedition.
From my notes/observations: Medium-sized with long yellow-orange legs appearing slightly taller and larger than nearby Sanderlings; pale reddish on breast fading, but extending onto upper belly; bill appeared small-to-medium and fairly straight (at one quick glance it looked slightly decurved); Appeared small-headed; upperparts were coarsly patterned; walked deliberately; lower back, rump and middle of tail appeared dark when it flew. What I did not see: underwing when it flew; coloration on back and entire head/neck.
First thought: Buff-breasted Sandpiper, though at first it looked a bit more robust and definitiely out of usual habitat. They can be seen in coastal areas and perhaps it seemed more robust since it was NOT 2 miles off in the back of Duda with tons of heat shimmer. The other thing bothering me is that the color seemed richer than usual for this bird.
Second thought: Long bright legs/small head immediately brought to mind Ruff. I didn't get a good enough look at it in flight to concentrate on the unique white "U" on tail. Also, it didn't really tower over the Sanderlings, which, I think even a Reeve would.
Paulson, Hayman, et al. were helpful, but not very. Any comments, suggestions and opinions gratefully accepted.