These Dowitchers seemed unfazed when I walked toward the flock as they fed at the ocean’s edge, August 30. I had no idea what bird they were until after I was back in the cabana with my reference books — either Long-billed or Short-billed Dowitcher.

Lymnodromus scolopaceus or Limnodromus griseus ~ August 30, 2017

One of the few ways to distinguish between the two is that “Long-billed flocks keep up a constant soft chatter, while Short-billed flocks are silent.” (Sibley)

It seems they were murmuring as the waves washed in and I approached but I can’t say for sure — next time I’ll pay attention!

When Jello and I take our early morning walk at Long Beach, there’s always something imprinted in the sand that draws my attention.  Here are three examples with nice shadows.

Thanks to Cee for giving me reasons to play with my photographs!

The Sibley Field Guide To Birds of Western North America, David Allen Sibley