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Western Sandpiper Identification

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The Four Keys to ID

  • Size & Shape

    A small, portly shorebird with a long, thin bill with a slightly curved tip. It has long, pointed wings, a short tail, and medium-length legs for its size. Females tend to be larger and have longer bills than males.

    Relative Size

    Larger than a Least Sandpiper, smaller than a Dunlin.

    Relative Sizebetween sparrow and robinbetween sparrow and robin

    Measurements
    • Both Sexes
      • Length: 5.5-6.7 in (14-17 cm)
      • Weight: 0.8-1.2 oz (22-35 g)
      • Wingspan: 13.8-14.6 in (35-37 cm)