Lamar Valley, Yellowstone National Park
Very small sandpiper. Thin black beak. Mottled throughout and white underneath.
These are two of four Least Sandpipers I found by the creek, early south-bound migrants expected in July. The yellow flowers behind them are Water-Primrose (Ludwigia octovalvis).
FOS, at least 5 counted. Unfortunately this one was missing a leg.
Least sandpiper (Calidris minutilla) looking at its photographer.
24 Jul 2011.
Green Lane Reservoir, Montgomery Co, PA.
Worn breeding plumage.
The Least Sandpiper (Calidris minutilla) is the smallest shorebird.