curlew sandpiper? (1 Viewer)

Is this a Curlew Sandpiper? There were a couple like this nearby a bunch of Dunlin which were still in breeding plumage. Taken yesterday in Shanghai.

Thanks in advance
Mike

Its also a Dunlin. A long-billed and presumably Siberian bird. Those dirty marks on the breast are a giveaway

Thanks Jane

viator said:

Is this a Curlew Sandpiper? There were a couple like this nearby a bunch of Dunlin which were still in breeding plumage. Taken yesterday in Shanghai.

Thanks in advance
Mike

Click to expand...

Hi Mike,
Had several curlew sands last Thursday in North Norfolk. The first thing you note in a flock of dunlin is that they are larger than dunlin, often keeping themselves to the side of the flock, or in front. Their movement and feeding technique is less hurried than dunlin. Last week , when in flight with numerous dunlin, they appeared to keep to the side and back of the mass although can't say if this is a regular feature. Their beak appears more decurved and slightly longer although some races of dunlin , such as the photo you took, show a long billed dunlin sp. Once you've noticed a difference in size, position and feeding manner you'll be able to note the buff neck and lighter warmer colours than the dunlin.
I do appreciate that dunlin coming out of breeding plumage can be a confusing lot, but I am sure that once you've noted curlew sand it won't be a problem in the future.
wishing you all the best with autumnal waders,
Jono

Thanks for the details Jono!

Another thing, at least here in Europe ; the Curlew sandpiper look longer legged and longer necked than Dunlin.