090420 Spotted Sandpiper
This is a non-breeding bird, common for this time of year. Though the Spotted Sandpiper is known for its spots, not all birds will sport them now, especially those molting just before migration into winter plumage.
090920 Blue-winged Teal
090920 Blue-winged Teal
At first appearance, it appeared that these were simply Blue-winged Teal. If one looks a little closer, te green speculum can be seen at the edge of the femoral tract.
091020 Great Blue Heron
Cattle Egret
This loner was among a group of several protective Great Egrets on Shorebird Jetty on this rainy day when many waterbirds were out of the skies.
Pectoral Sandpiper
This was a nice find among the many more common individuals.
The "Silent Sentinel" at its best.
Franklin's Gull
Least Sandpiper
This may be the smallest sandpiper, but it is still beautiful in breeding plumage.
Cliff Swallow
It is rare for these birds to be perched due to rudimentary feet, but it happens on occasion.
One could say "three on a match." Note the red tip on the bill, one of the distinguishing characteristics for this species.
Some of these were before and after the Wyoming adventure, but it is always good to return to familiar grounds, especially in the midst of migration.
