I have been pursuing the identification of this bird with numerous folks. First off, I would like to say thanks to all that have given me their opinions. The discussion has been great and I have learned a lot. I'm sure there will be more to come.

I have two different photos of the bird in the same position. To my knowledge, there is no photo of the bird foraging. I do have the field notes from Marian Bailey, the refuge biologist, as well.

With size and structure just about the same as the other Western Sandpipers in the pictures I even felt it was just an odd colored Western. Hearing from experts like Dennis and Kevin Karlson, they feel it is most likely a very red colored Western Sandpiper.

I am no expert, but with all the votes I think the mystery may be laid to rest.

Tim O'Brien
Elma, WA
mailto: kertim7179 at yahoo dot com



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