Bird ID please

dbozkurt · #1 (**permalink**) 26-11-2006, 12:44 PM

I took the picture this morning, light wasn't brillant so a touch out of focus when enlarged but good enough for ID I think. I looked in my book and I think it maybe a Purple Sandpiper, does anyone agree or disagree. It was taken on Benbecula this morning Outer Hebrides.

Also around here we get large amounts of redshanks, in fields on beaches etc. can anyone advise me why sometimes they still quite tall and thin, and other shorter and squatter. I know its the same type of birds bright red legs, part red beak etc...is it something to do with male and female or young. The only other bird it could be was the spotted redshank and its the wrong time of the year and wrong area.

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Thanks Debs

aeshna5 · #2 (**permalink**) 26-11-2006, 01:31 PM

Debs, you're correct- it's most definitely a Purple Sandpiper + A very good photo, showing the typical dark plumage + orange feet/bill on typical rocky habitat. Usually quite confiding + often with Turnstones.

Nicola Main · #3 (**permalink**) 26-11-2006, 01:54 PM

I agree definitely Purple Sandpiper! We get them a lot on our local beach and they are such lovely creatures, but can be hard to see against rocks or in dark light. Great pic too