Re: Common Sandpiper ID

The Common Sandpiper turned out to be a Marsh Sandpiper with a broken bill.

Thanks all for your responses.

Cheers,

Peter

Driving past the Cheltham Salt Works (Geelong, Vic) last night, i spotted some waders from the Portarlington Hwy. After doing a quick scan, one of the waders stood out and i'm 98% sure it was a Common Sandpiper.

It was slightly bigger than a sharp-tailed,  had a short straight bill, with a yellow discoulouration at the base, yellow legs, a plain white breat with no markings and a very pale chestnut cap.  The distinguishable white shoulder patch is also visible, but i still have some doubt over the ID.

I have very good digiscoped photos of the bird, and if anyone is familiar with Common Sandpipers, and would like to take a look at a photo, i can send them some to ID.

Any help appreciated.

Peter.

P.s. Also at the saltworks were Latham's Snipe and 3 Little Egrets.