Possible Semipalmated Sandpiper at Mono County Park

Observers: Justin Hite
Email: justinhiteatgmaildotcom
Verification: MONO
Remote Name: 65.241.2.253
Date: 08/05/2008
Time: 06:08 PM -0400

I was down at the County Park birdwalk this afternoon, and among a group of 24 Western Sandpipers and 5 Least Sandpipers there was a single Calidris that I think might have been a Semipalmated. It was only in good binocular viewing range (I didn't have a scope) for about 30 seconds, in which time i got several photos. Short stubby bill, though a bit sharper tipped than I am used to SESAs having. No rufous in the back, with a white scalloping to the back feathers. Black legs, no primary projection, and size about on par with that of a WESA, maybe a little smaller. Anybody have any thoughts on whether this is a SESA or just a short billed WESA? Also about 10,000 Phalaropes, 20%+ Red-necked. And a single juvy Willet. No Sabine's Gulls yet...