ML646688233

Observation details

One dowitcher photographed among three shorebirds in fresh-water wetland habitat. The center bird shows a long, straight bill noticeably longer than the head length. Legs appeared long at first glance (suggesting a yellowlegs), but zoomed photos show proportionally dowitcher-like bill length and overall shape; leg color not clearly visible due to low light. Plumage in basic (non-breeding) condition: body overall pale gray with minimal spotting on back and lightly marked breast. Taller and much paler than the Wilson’s Snipe immediately to the left. Foraging in shallow water. No vocalizations heard. Distance approximately 300 ft; photographs lack enough detail to confirm species. Reported as Short-billed/Long-billed Dowitcher. See photo.