Sandpiper (Cayo Coco, Cuba) Feb. 12 (1 Viewer)

[Michal B]

I haven't a lot of experience with them, so I am still trying to work out IDs for winter shorebirds. Plus, the setting sun has affected the colour rendition for this medium-sized sandpiper. Any help would be appreciated.

Cheers.

 

[dwatsonbirder]

It's a Pluvialis rather than a sandpiper (note the short, stubby bill and heady build) - in this case, Grey (Black-bellied) Plover.

 

[Bewick]

Not a sandpiper a grey plover (black bellied plover).

 

[Michal B]

Thanks. The setting sun messed up my ID. Black-Bellied Plovers were not uncommon. This looked like a very different bird. In addition to the overall colour, the legs and bill led me astray (the bill looked thinner).

 

[Butty]

the bill looked thinner

I agree. It's certainly what put me off.

 

[Bewick]

Bill looks fine to me, also has a white rump.