Palo Alto, California USA - last mix (1 Viewer)

[Fandango739]

Seen in October in Palo Alto Baylands.

1 - 2) At first I thought the dark underwing spot was odd shadow play, but now I don't think so. Who has this?
3 - 4) I have been unable to find a clear ID match for this sparrow. At least it was willing to pose for the pics.
5) Dowitcher or...?

Thanks for sharing the knowledge!

 

[MelospizaMelodiaFan]

I'm pretty sure the sparrow is a white crowned.

 

[Butty]

dark underwing spot . . . Who has this?

Black-bellied plover.

 

[qwerty5]

Agree the last bird looks like a dowitcher, but why is it swimming?

 

[tom baxter]

Agree the last bird looks like a dowitcher, but why is it swimming?

It is a Dowitcher and there’s a very good chance it’s Long-billed Dowitcher because they frequently swim in California. I’ve noticed that LB Dowitchers make a habit of hanging out in water up to their belly like this, and even swim with some regularity, whereas you might see a Short-billed in deep water briefly but they almost never choose to hang out that way and loaf around. There are some particular spots around San Diego where LB do this all the time.