Mystery Shorebird
I observed this bird at Swan Lake today. I suspect it is a Lesser Yellowlegs, but I am uncertain. When it flew off, it did have the white patch above its tailfeathers that is characteristic of yellowlegs. It also seems to lack the up-turned bill of a Greater Yellowlegs.
My uncertainty arises from the shape, which seems different than what I have seen on Greater Yellowlegs before (I’ve not ever seen a Lesser Yellowlegs). The shape is probably due to the bird’s attempts to endure the moderately heavy rain that was falling at the time. There seems to be only minimal barring/spotting, much less than appears in the bird books I have looked at.
Any help in confirming/denying my suspicions with reasons why would be appreciated.
[...] At Swan Lake, in addition to the abundant Mallards, I saw the male Green-winged Teal I observed yesterday. I also Confirmed the American Wigeon I thought I saw yesterday, and was able to get a photo of what I believe is a Lesser Yellowlegs. If this is correct, it would be the first photo I have managed to get of this bird (as far as I know, anyway). [...]
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