Calidris alpina

Well, it was going to be three sparrows in three days, with this picture of a beautiful springtime scene, but in light of the many unblipped species I captured today, I just couldn't bring myself to choose it. Some blip choices are so agonizing.

First world problems, I know.

Anyhoo, this one is new for my journal--the Dunlin. This is a widespread species, breeding throughout the high latitudes of the northern hemisphere and wintering along the coasts of Central and North America, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. It's a small sandpiper (only slightly larger than the tiny peeps) best distinguished by its curved bill and plumage patterns. It is recognized scientifically as one of the most social sandpipers, migrating together in huge flocks.

Some Dunlin do overwinter in Humboldt County, but with migration in full swing, numbers are higher this time of year. They look a lot different right now too--in winter they are a mostly uniform gray, lacking the reddish back and black belly of their brilliant breeding plumage. I've rarely seen Dunlin all decked out like this before, so to see so many at the marsh over these last couple weeks has been really fulfilling.

Other notable spoils today: Band-Tailed Pigeon and Greater Yellowlegs.