Sandpiper ID help please (1 Viewer)

[mikeivan]

While birding yesterday in Galveston, TX at a bayside mudflat, I got excited trying to get what I thought was a Greater and a Lesser Yellowlegs in the same photo. I had limited success and when I got the photos up on my computer, I discovered that the smaller bird was not a Lesser Yellowlegs but a Sandpiper of unknown species (to me). I am hoping someone can help me identify it.


Here they are together. Of course, I now realize that Yellowlegs could be a Lesser.



And here he is by himself. I know this is difficult with nothing for scale. He seemed small but not tiny.

My three alternatives are: Pectoral, Semipalmated and Least Sandpiper. Any assistance will be appreciated. Thanks, Mike

 

[Mark Lew1s]

Pectoral sandpiper, i reckon.

 

[Jane Turner]

Yes, its a Pectoral Sand. The size build and leg colour are a unique combination in a US context

 

[Bird Hard 2]

...and yes, the yellowlegs is a Lesser.

 

[CJW]

Yes, its a Pectoral Sand. The size build and leg colour are a unique combination in a US context

I'm sure those confronted with a Sharp-tailed Sandpiper in the colonies will make good use of this valuable and accurate ID tip....

 

[mikeivan]

Thanks for your help (with both birds).

 

[Jane Turner]

I'm sure those confronted with a Sharp-tailed Sandpiper in the colonies will make good use of this valuable and accurate ID tip....

Sharpies are of course to be expected in Texas!