ML641875011

Observation details

Three calidrids feeding together on the mudflats along the northeastern shoreline. Comparably sized and shaped, with long primary projection creating a long, tapered tail end exhibited only by Baird's Sandpiper and White-rumped Sandpiper among regionally expected 𝘊𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘥𝘳𝘪𝘴 species. Glare from the late afternoon sun obscured most plumage details, but pale supercilium prominent in all 𝘊. 𝘧𝘶𝘴𝘤𝘪𝘰𝘭𝘭𝘪𝘴 plumages was occasionally visible in some scope views, supporting that species identification, as well as slightly downcurved bills (as opposed to straighter bills generally found in 𝘊. 𝘣𝘢𝘪𝘳𝘥𝘪𝘪). Smudgy streaking also visible on face and flanks, creating a dark, "hooded" appearance. Birds never flew or stretched in any manner that would reveal the diagnostic pale rump. Uncommon but expected migrant shorebird in fall in eastern New York. Very low quality stills from digiscoped video uploaded.