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Jim Williams has been watching birds and writing about their antics since before "Gilligan's Island" went into reruns. Join him for his unique insights, his everyday adventures and an open conversation about the birds in your back yard and beyond.
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Shorebird watching at Wirth Lake
Posted by: Jim Williams under Bird identification, Bird migration, Bird sightings Updated: May 21, 2012 - 11:55 AM
Several species of shorebirds are being seen feeding in a large (very large) mud puddle at the southwest corner of Wirth Lake along Glenwood Avenue. It's not often that you can find such a variety of those birds so close to the city center. Stars of the show today were White-rumped Sandpipers and Semi-palmated Plovers. Jude and I were there early Sunday evening to see not only the birds but three photographers prone on the mud (cardboard or canvas keeping them dry), watching and waiting for the birds to come close. My photographs were taken from dry ground, probably not as good as theirs but easier on my shoes. The first bird pictured is a White-rumped Sandpiper, a good bird wherever found, especially so close to home. The white rump is visible when the bird flies; note color at base of bill. Below that is a Least Sandpiper (tiny, with greenish legs). Other species seen include yellowlegs (probably lesser), Killdeer (with young), Spotted Sandpiper, and Least Sandpiper. The birds have been there for several days, new birds arriving over the weekend. Migrants, they're certain to move on, but it would be worth a look for the next day or two.
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