Tawas Point, June 4

[TT]

Hello,

Highlights:
White-rumped Sandpiper: 2 observed on the near lake-side sand bar area 
off the tip of the point, from early morning to early afternoon.(approx. 
8 a.m.-1:30 p.m.). They were actively feeding in and near the water with 
other shorebirds, and were active, with occasional preening and resting.
Baird's Sandpiper: 1 observed on the near lake-side sand bar area off 
the tip of the point, from early morning to early afternoon (approx. 8 
a.m.-1:30 p.m.). Although in the general vicinity of other shorebirds, 
it fed (and preened and rested) alone on the drier areas of the sand 
bars. It was active (but deliberate in nature), mainly walking while 
picking for food. I allowed much time to notice field marks (including 
wings extending well past the tail; dark rump; slender, long body; 
coloration similar to a Least Sandpiper, but this bird larger and with 
dark legs), and to make direct size, coloration, wing extension relative 
to tail, and habit comparisons to other birds on the sand bars, 
including Least Sandpiper (4), Semipalmated Sandpiper (30), and the 
White-rumped Sandpipers. Field guides were well consulted for proper 
identification, along with eliminating the possibility of a lighter 
phased Sanderling (differentiated by comparing wing extension relative 
to tail, body shape, feeding style, running style, and stance).
Red Knot: 1 observed on lake-side sand bar, just after noon. It was 
resting, along with occasional feeding.
Others: Philadelphia Vireo, Semipalmated Plover, Black-bellied Plover, 
Mourning Warbler (2 singing males), Magnolia Warbler (singing male), 
Orchard Oriole (singing male), and Clay-colored Sparrow (2 singing males).

Tom Tucholski
Gladwin, Michigan
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