Dunlin? Sanibel Florida 1/12/19 (1 Viewer)

[Birds4Kathy]

Hi, We were at JN Ding Darling WR on Sanibel Island Florida on January 12, 2019. There were lots of shorebirds. I think the enclosed photo is of Dunlin flying but I'm uncertain (sorry for poor photo quality). One identifying feature is "dark rump" is that what is seen in this photo? Not sure where rump ends and tail begins.... Any insight would be appreciated. Thanks, Kathy

 

[RafaelMatias]

They're Red Knot.

 

[birdmeister]

Red Knots indeed. Dunlin would show a slightly longer and more drooped bill, and it would appear less stocky.

 

[RafaelMatias]

Red Knots indeed. Dunlin would show a slightly longer and more drooped bill, and it would appear less stocky.

Yes, but really important to notice here is the rump/upper tail coverts pattern, which is unique to Red Knot.

 

[Birds4Kathy]

This is very exciting news!! I have never seen a red knot before - a new one for my life list!! Thank you for all of the insight. I really appreciate it.

 

[TLeukering]

Dunlin has a stripe of dark splitting the pale rump and upper-tail coverts.