Stilt Sandpiper juvenile

The elegant Stilt Sandpiper is always a treat. As many as nine were at the Sinks this week, all juveniles. This bird shows the long bill with droop at the tip typical of the species, as well as the slim body profile. Frequently these birds take advantage of their long legs to wade up to the body in deeper water than others.

Aging is by the pattern of the upperparts feathers, with lighter bases, broad dark subterminal areas, and light borders. This bird has upperparts a bit messier than many juveniles, which often show a neater pattern. Just a few gray basic scapular have appeared. Juveniles have underparts with streaked and often slightly buffy breasts, lacking barring of alternate adults (traces of which may linger into the fall). The streaking continues along the flanks.