10 November, 2009

Lesser Yellowlegs


Scientific Name: Tringa flavipes

Population Estimate: 400K, Least Concern status

Range: Breeds in boreal forest with scattered shallow wetlands in northern Canada and through the interior of Alaska, a range extending further north than Greater Yellowlegs. Winters from the southern coastal US, down through Mexico, Central and South America where found in a wide variety of shallow fresh and saltwater habitats.

Field Notes: Medium sized sandpiper, with with sharp, straight bill. Differentiated from most other sandpipers by the bright yellow legs. Greater Yellowlegs is larger and has a blunt-tipped, slightly upturned bill.

Personal Notes: Elegant wading bird seen in migration in the Minnesota River Valley. Size comparison with a Canada Goose in the above photo.

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