For the first time in several years, a good variety of shorebirds are visiting the mud-flat (such as it is) at Great Meadows. So far there have been concentrations of Least Sandpipers (20-30) and a surprising number (for an inland location) of Semipalmated Sandpipers, which on some counts have outnumbered Leasts. Killdeer have been joined by Semipalmated Plovers in small numbers (under 10). Solitary Sandpipers have actually outnumbered Spotteds on most counts. Since August 5 one or two early Pectorals have been seen most days, but are still scarce.
Lesser Yellowlegs have been fairly regular since the beginning of August, with the occasional Greater. Several observers have seen the occasional pair (or more) of Short-billed Dowitchers. On August 9th a cold front passed through the area and immediately afterward Willy Hutcheson found 17 Stilt Sandpipers preening on the mud, but as soon as the rain stopped, they flew out. No word yet on whether they have returned.
With at least 8 species of shorebird seen most days, this bodes well for the rest of August. Fingers crossed for a Baird's, or a Whimbrel, or some phalaropes.
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