ML645559508

Observation details

***Very Rare, continuing molting adult. Pluvialis plover detected upon our arrival among the dozen or so BBPLs at the back edge of field of corn stubble. Immediately apparent was its smaller stature and golden hues to the upperparts. As the lighting improved, more features were noted including the belly still retaining a good amount of the black alternate plumage bordered by white. Importantly, the black ended before reaching the undertail coverts, a diagnostic feature for this species in full alternate plumage. Given the late date, this is merely circumstantial yet noteworthy nonetheless. Unlike the long bill of the nearby BBPLs (and even AMGPs from prior experience) this bird's bill was rather short and chisel shaped. All the plovers, flushed at 8:21AM and fortunately only the EUGP returned and to a much closer viewing area to boot! In flight the diagnostic bright white axillaries were noticeable and upon closer inspection of photos, the white wingstripe was also discernable. Upon landing and prior to settling into a narrow furrow to rest, the plover emitted several 'ploowee' call notes reminiscent of other golden-plovers. Many super distant and then later some moderately distant photos were captured. US Bird for MEG, and lifer for KG!