On a more serious note. The yellowlegs is more likely an early returning
migrant, probably a non-breeder or a failed breeder. While it doesn't seem
likely it should be noted that shorebird migration begins in early July.
Lesser's are much more common in late June in Eastern Washington than in
Western Washington. For last year the early reported record for E WA was 4
on 6/23 in Okanogan Co. (Washington Field notes, WOS news 58)
Back to more humorous talk I'm not sure which sex arrives early on average
and even if I did I wouldn't dare post it on tweeters for fear of the
backlash ;), perhaps somebody a bit more brave might take the bait.

Scott Downes
sdownes at u.washington.edu
Seattle WA

"Birds don't read bird books. (That's why they are seen doing things they
are not supposed to do)." -Mary Wood


On Fri, 25 Jun 1999, Deborah Wisti-Peterson wrote:
> the most surprising bird of the day was the single lesser yellowlegs
> wandering around the central pond, bobbing and leaning as he (?)
> tried to get a better look at me. he was clearly in breeding plumage,
> had a very thin dark-colored beak, and he even made several
> high-pitched "tews" for me. [some of you may ask why i think this
> bird is a male, so i will explain for you. i think this bird is a
> male because he is late, apparently as a result of getting lost and
> stubbornly refusing to ask anyone for directions! okay, okay, i guess
> that's not funny, but i laughed.]