Western sandpipers in alexandria

Todd Thanks for this. I had another opportunity to visit Eisenhower Ave again today and found two birds amongst 60 Semi-p the following is a description covering both weeks Western sandpiper Alexandria July 29th and August 5 2012 At least 2 adults (8/5, one on 7/29) amongst c 60 Semi-palmated sandpiper Noticeably longer bills despite variable lengths on Semi-p, 25-75% longer than the range. Western bills noticeably tapering to a point and slightly decurved Overall structure slightly more attenuated and less pot-bellied than typical Semi-p pose, head looked noticeably larger in direct comparison in most angles Plumage subtly distinct on close study. Head paler with finer marking (e.g. dark eye stripe less distinct) center of crown dark and contrasting compared to the sides / supercilium when seen head on. From behind, when preening some rufous feather edging was apparent The breast was lightly streaked in the center, more closely marked at the side. The lower breast and upper forward flanks were sparsely marked with small dark backward facing arrow head feather markings. Upper-scapulars showed variable rufous edging particularly nearer the breast and the tertials, some feathers in the central area had been replaced with grey non-breeding plumage Most lower-scapulars had been replaced with non-breeding grey feathers of the few that remained, the black often appeared slightly larger and more rounded that the similar feathers on Semi-P. When preening Please let me know if you need any additional information Rob Young Alexandria, VA Cell 571-436-0439 .