The red-backed sandpiper, or American dunlin, is one of the larger members of the genus and quite plentiful on the Coast marshes, but it is seldom seen in the interior valleys except during its migrations. In its winter plumage, in which our sportsmen see it, it is of a dull light gray color. A diagnostic feature of this species is the slightly downward curved bill.
Color—Head and upper parts, light gray, with a white stripe over the eye; shafts of the feathers are dark brown, producing a streaky appearance. In its summer plumage the head and back are reddish brown, wings brownish and abdomen black.
Nest and Eggs—Nests on the ground without lining. Eggs, bluish white, with brown spots.
Measurements—Total length, about 8 1/2 inches; wing, 4 3/4; bill, 1 5/8.
THE WILLET
(Symphemia Semipalmata inornata)
The willet, or stone curlew as it is sometimes called, is a resident species, breeding from Washington to Mexico. It is a western bird, ranging eastward to the Mississippi valley, where it is but a straggler. In size it is nearly as large as the marlin. Its black wings, with broad, white patches, and feet webbed for about half the length of the toes, are distinguishing features, easily recognized. It is generally found on the salt marshes.
Color—The general color of the plumage is ashy white or light gray, usually with some light buff markings on the breast. When flying it shows a broad, white patch on the wings, caused by the upper part of the primaries and part of the secondaries being white. Its smoky black axillars will always distinguish it.
Nest and Eggs—The nest is any place on the ground where it can deposit three or four pale buff eggs, spotted with dark brown.
Measurements—Total length, 15 1/2 inches; wing, 8 1/2; bill, 2 1/2 to 2 3/4 inches.