Fig. 1. Many alternate-plumaged Semipalmated Sandpipers show strong orange/brick red colour on the lateral crown, scapulars and cheek. These birds might easily be confused with Western Sandpiper, especially the longer billed individuals.

Fig. 2.A slighly darker individual. Still plenty of rufous but masked by the dark feather centers.

Fig. 3. This individual has a fairly short, straight bill for a Semipalmated Sandpiper, suggestive of Little Stint.

Fig. 4.

Fig. 5.

Fig. 6. Another view of the bird in Fig. 5.

Fig. 7. A more heavily marked individual.

Fig. 8. Not all spring birds are particularly bright. Rather typical bill shape and length.

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