Curlew ID help (1 Viewer)

I've seen these birds at Baylands nature preserve in Palo Alto, California. I think the first is a long-billed Curlew. Is that right, or is it something else?

The second photo is of another bird seen in the same area. This one looks like the first, except the bill is straight rather than decurved. This is not just a question of angle of view; I've looked carefully and photos of the same individual from several angles show a straight bill. I've seen a number of individuals with the straight bill.

What is this bird?

Thanks.

Guy

The first is Long-billed Curlew. The second is Marbled Godwit.

-Adam

Yup, I agree with Blackstart. Great pics Guy.

I agree with above. The bill on the Marbled Godwit is generally two toned (fleshy towards base and dark from midpoint to tip) and is shown like that in most field guides. I believe your bird has a bill covered in mud and thus it looks all dark.

Thank you all.

Yes, both birds were busy probing the mud. The tide had just gone out and all the birds were feeding.

Guy