L O U I S I a N a SHOREBIRDS This Public Document Was Published at a Total Cost of $5,226.00

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L O U I S I A N A SHOREBIRDS This public document was published at a total cost of $5,226.00. One thousand copies of this public document were published in this first printing at a cost of $5,226.00. The total cost of all printings of this document, including reprints, is $5,226.00. This document was published by the Barataria-Terrebonne National Estuary Program, NSU Campus, P.O. Box 2663, Thibodaux, LA 70310, to provide the public with environmental information under authority of LA R.S. 30-2011. This material was printed in accordance with standards for printing by state agencies established pursuant to R.S. 43:31. L O U I S I A N A SHOREBIRDS

Written by Bill Fontenot & Richard DeMay

Photography by Greg Lavaty, Richard DeMay & Delaina LeBlanc

Illustration and Design by Diane K. Baker

Barataria - Terrebonne National Estuary Program

1 WHAT IS A SHOREBIRD?

f all of the world’s forests. Some, like the Stilt Sandpip- the bare edges of lakes and streams. major bird groups, er, routinely forage in several inches Most shorebirds possess long, point- the shorebirds of water, while the prairie-dwelling ed wings and are swift, powerful probably exhibit the Upland Sandpiper rarely ever ap- fliers. As well, most possess short highest degree of proaches water at all. tails for maximum maneuverability variabilityO in terms of body structure, Extremes aside, some broad gen- both on the ground and in the air. size, behavior, and habitat preferenc- eralizations can be made concerning On the ground, shorebirds do not es. In terms of size, for example, the the majority of shorebird species. hop, but walk and/or run, some six-inch Least Sandpiper is hardly Most shorebirds live in close associ- with remarkable dexterity and speed. larger than a sparrow, whereas the ation with water. Most live in open Most shorebirds occur in groups, eighteen-inch long American Avocet landscapes such as beaches, prairies, from smaller single-species flocks to is larger than a crow and possesses pastures, agricultural fields, or along larger mixed-species flocks. a wingspan comparable to that of a Over 60 species of shorebirds mid-sized heron. The eight-inch long have been recorded in North sickle-shaped bill of the Long-billed America. Most of these nest within Curlew gives it an almost freakish marsh, prairie, and tundra habitats appearance, whereas the abbreviated of far-northerly latitudes, and most “chicken-like” bills of the smaller overwinter thousands of miles to plovers are only a quarter-inch or less the south, along the coastal zones of in length. Some shorebirds, such as North, Central, and South America. the Purple Sandpiper, possess nota- Shorebirds are grouped into bly short legs, whereas others such as several families: Plovers (family those of the Black-necked Stilt seem Charadriidae), Oystercatchers (family almost ridiculously long. The Ruddy Haematopodidae), Stilts and Avocets Turnstone and the aptly named (family Recurvirostridae), Jacanas Sanderling, live almost exclusively (family Jacanidae), and Sandpipers, on beaches, whereas the American Upland Sandpiper Phalaropes, and Allies (family Scol-

Woodcock makes its home in dense Greg Lavaty opacidae). Greg Lavaty

2 Black-necked Stilt Greg Lavaty

3 bird world. Shorebird expert Den- nis Paulson has reported American Golden-Plover flight speeds in excess of 100mph. Average cruising speed for this species during its annual 10,000 mile bi-hemispheric round- trip migration trek from the Arctic to southern South America is estimated to be about 50mph. Twelve of the world’s 66 species of plover breed in North America. Said to have evolved from an ancestral plover-like bird, the oystercatchers possess thick, strong legs and bills; well-suited to mol- lusk-hunting along rocks and reefs in near-shore marine waters. Two of the world’s 10 oystercatcher species breed in North America. American Avocet It is not known for sure, however,

Greg Lavaty it is thought that oystercatchers Plovers are relatively short- birds, the hind toes of the plovers that breed at sub-tropical latitudes necked, short-billed birds that utilize are reduced to mere vestigial append- (northern Gulf of Mexico) do not dry to saturated bare-soil or short- ages, signifying their adaptation to migrate much at all, likely congregat- grass fields and beaches to run down only the flattest and smoothest of ing in mostly small loosely associated their prey. Sandpipers tend to forage substrates. Recent DNA studies have communal groups during winter, with their heads down most of the revealed that the plovers are actually perhaps remaining within the same time, whereas plovers maintain a more closely allied to the gulls and general area all year long. more alert upright posture; their rel- terns than they are to the sandpip- Stilts and Avocets are larger, long- atively large eyes constantly scanning ers. legged, long-billed waders that pluck for prey – even at night for some With their sleek, tapered bodies or skim their prey from the water. species such as Black-bellied Plover and wings, plovers are among the As with the oystercatchers, this sub- and Killdeer. Unlike most other swiftest and strongest fliers in the group is said to have descended from

Marbled Godwit

Long-billed Curlew Piping Plover Dunlin Diane K. Baker 4 a common ancestral plover-like bird. Also like the oystercatchers, the relatively large body sizes and striking color-patterns and body parts of stilts and avocets afford fairly straightfor- ward identification in the field. Two of the world’s 9 species of stilts and avocets breed in North America. Jacanas are New World tropical birds which superficially look and behave much like the gallinules. The Northern Jacana is the only jacana species known to occur north of Mexico, occasionally turning up within the marshlands in the coastal zone of southern Texas. Sandpipers, Phalaropes, and Allies vary over an amazingly wide spectrum of size, shape, and structure, and are generally adapted to Ruddy Turnstone lives in or near shallow water where Greg Lavaty they probe or pluck prey from both tance migrations. Semipalmated vorable winds, migrating birds utilize water and soil. Most sandpipers gath- Sandpipers engage in a globe-trotting a variety of altitudes ranging from er into larger feeding flocks than do 10,000+ mile, elliptical migratory just above sea level all the way up to plovers, methodically foraging like route similar to that of the American 20,000 feet. grazing herds of cattle. Compared to Golden-Plover. Such routes include Recent technological advances in the plovers, the toes of the sandpip- a few non-stop 2,500 mile legs, the telemetry have allowed researchers ers are long, with the hind toe short first of which is launched from the to track the migratory journeys of and elevated – not vestigial as with Bay of Fundy (southeastern Canada) individual birds. A one-ounce Semi- the plovers. out over the western Atlantic Ocean, palmated Sandpiper was tracked Like the plovers, a number of then banking off of the trade winds on a non-stop flight from Maine to species within the sandpiper group to reach their first stop in northern Guyana (northern South America) are known for their epic long-dis- South America. In order to find fa- in two days, averaging about 40 mph

American Oystercatcher

Upland Sandpiper American Avocet Wilson’s Snipe

5 Wilson’s Plover nest on a beach scrape Delaina LeBlanc over the course of the journey. of other invertebrates. Some spe- the air, often accompanied by equal- Recently (2012), researchers cies also include seeds and berries ly strange vocalizations, all of which have tracked three spring-migrating in their diets. The high metabolic are intriguing to observe and hear. Whimbrels engaged in a 95-100 demands of these long-distance Male Pectoral and White-rumped hour, 4,000 mile non-stop flight migrants require much of their time sandpipers possess inflatable sacs from wintering grounds at Sao Luis, to be spent foraging. within their upper breasts which Brazil to the northern coast of the As with most seabirds (example: they use during breeding displays. Gulf of Mexico. gulls and terns), most shorebird During the breeding season, the The family Scolopacidae is the species nest in simple “scrapes,” male Ruff grows an elaborate display largest of all the shorebirds, contain- slight indentions made on various plumage about its neck and upper ing 21 separate genera and 87 total substrates from sand to gravel to breast, analogous to the nuptial species worldwide, 42 of which are grass. Normally, the male excavates plumes put on by some egrets. regularly found in North America. the scrape, and in most species the Interestingly, nesting and Essentially, shorebirds inhabit female adds bits of various materials brooding duties are reversed in the most all major ecosystems in North to line the indention and arrange it phalaropes. Within this group, the America from dry short-grass prai- about her legs and breast. Site fidel- females are more brightly colored, ries, to wet meadows, stream banks, ity, down to reusing the same scrape and it is they who compete for the Artic tundra, and even woodlands; year after year, has been document- attention of the males. Once eggs but are rarest in mountainous ed in a number of species. Beyond are laid, the females leave them to settings. scrapes, a few species nest at the tops the males to incubate and brood. In Like most animals, shorebirds of grass tussocks or at the bases of fact phalarope females not only leave are opportunistic foragers, routinely shrubs. Only one North American these duties to the males, but they taking a wide variety of habitats species, the Solitary Sandpiper, also depart early from their breeding in which they seasonally occupy. routinely nests in trees, most often grounds altogether, initiating migra- Typical items include small amphib- reusing abandoned songbird nests. tion as soon as their egg-laying duties ians, fishes, mollusks, crustaceans, Many shorebirds engage in ritu- are done. spiders, insects, worms and grubs, alistic, almost mechanical breeding For most species, shorebird eggs as well as the adults and/or larvae displays both on the ground and in are large in relation to the body sizes

6 Willet chick Richard DeMay

7 Wilson’s Plover Greg Lavaty

8 of the females. Accordingly, hatchlings are quite precocious, able to move about and forage on their own within a very short time after hatch- ing. Among all of the North Ameri- can shorebirds, only the oystercatchers, Wilson’s Snipe, and American Woodcock feed their hatchlings! In most species, males take over incubation and brooding soon after the female lays. It is thought that this strategy allows the female to prepare for her long migratory trek by restocking her nutrient-depleted Solitary Sandpiper body as soon as possible after pro- ducing those substantial eggs. Greg Lavaty Fall migration composition considering that individuals of the the U.S. Gulf Coast in October, and timing are dependent on the same species may have been still corresponding more closely to the course of the reproductive cycle. making their way north to breeding fall migration peaks of raptors and Failed breeders are the first to head grounds as late as early June! songbirds. With fall migrating shore- south, with a number of tundra and Next come the successfully-bred birds, juveniles are relatively easy to tiaga-nesting species arriving on the adult females, often beginning in identify as they are the only ones U.S. Gulf Coast as early as the last early July; then followed by the adult wearing bright “pre-basic” plumages. week of June – exceedingly early for males in August. First-year birds are By contrast, fall-migrating adults any fall-migrating bird, especially the last to migrate, peaking along possess dull, worn plumages.

American Oystercatcher Greg Lavaty

9 Semipalmated Sandpiper Greg Lavaty

10 SHOREBIRDS IN LOUISIANA

horebirds are generally Louisiana, southwesterly through moisture and vegetation at various attracted to damp-to-wet Jefferson Davis Parish and south- times of the year. Fortunately, the sites, so it follows that easterly through Vermilion Parish, flooding/draining cycles associated shorebirding should be with both legs terminating along LA with these rice/crawfish aqua-cultur- first-rate in Louisiana, 14, which forms the southern/east- al practices dovetail nicely with the oneS of the dampest-to-wettest regions west base of the triangle. Here, vast seasonal habitat requirements for in North America. pastures along with numerous large most of North America’s nesting, It also has been established that rice and crawfish-farming operations migrating, and overwintering shore- shorebirds generally prefer wide- dominate the landscape, featuring bird species. open landscapes such as beaches, thousands of acres of flat, open In an effort to better understand marshes, agricultural fields, and at lands containing various degrees of and appreciate the importance of the open edges of lakes and streams. Here in Louisiana, such landscapes are commonly associated with the al- luvial lands within the Red and Mis- sissippi River valleys; and abundant- ly so within the state’s coastal zone which includes the Interstate-10 and Interstate-12 corridors and all lands southward to the coast itself. Of particular importance to Louisiana shorebirds is the old “prairie district” – now referred to as “the rice country” located in the southwestern quadrant of the state. This 2+ million-acre region forms a rough triangle extending southward Sanderlings and Ruddy Turnstone

from Evangeline Parish in central Greg Lavaty

11 Vernon Avoyelles

DeRidder 49

Evangeline Beauregard Allen Opelousas St. Landry Jefferson Acadia Davis Calcasieu 10 Lake Lafayette Charles 90 14 Cameron Vermilion

G u l f o f M e x i c o

rice/crawfish agriculture in southern impressive enough to conclude that in mind that the survey area repre- Louisiana to shorebirds, a group of the entire rice-growing region “is an sented just under half of the total ornithologists conducted a one-day important area for wintering shore- rice-growing acreage in this region! “snapshot” survey in the heart of the birds, perhaps the most important Elsewhere, damp agricultural rice country on February 21, 1988. inland area in the United States.” lands, pastures, reservoirs, sand- Covering parts of Cameron, Jeff Extrapolating from the 10.7% of the bars, river locks, and beaches are Davis, Vermilion, Acadia, and Lafay- fields surveyed, observers estimated well-distributed throughout the state, ette parishes, this 870,000 acre area that the area’s total 762,151 acres of attracting a fairly steady stream of contained well over 750,000 acres of fields held approximately 225,000 shorebirds throughout much of the fields; 82,240 acres (10.7%) of which shorebirds, including over 46,000 year. were actually surveyed. Fourteen Killdeer, over 57,000 Western Sand- In terms of “shorebirding species of shorebirds were recorded, piper, over 15,000 Dunlin, and over hotspots,” several areas within the seven of which occurred in numbers 80,000 Long-billed Dowitcher. Keep state stand out. In northwestern

12 Louisiana, the Yates Unit of the Red fish farmers, which limits birding ing is good to excellent in Louisiana River National Wildlife Refuge (Red opportunities to public roadsides from mid-July through early June, River Parish), and the Natchitoches possessing safe pull-off areas. In such very nearly year round! The summer Fish Hatchery (Natchitoches Parish) cases, birders are strongly advised months are the slowest, with most can be quite productive, especial- to remain near their vehicles at all of the migrants and overwintering ly during migration seasons. In times, should farmers require access species absent, leaving only local- northeastern Louisiana, the eastern into the fields through the pull-off breeding and a few “summering” portion of the Ouachita Wildlife areas. Farmers are generally friendly individuals. “Summering” is a behav- Management Area (Ouachita and and courteous to those birders who ioral phenomenon in which certain Richland parishes) supports rice remain safely parked along public individuals of certain species stop production, and hosts shorebirds roads; and are more often than not short of returning all the way back through much of the year. In curious as to what birders might be to their respective breeding grounds, southeastern Louisiana the Grand observing in their fields. choosing instead to spend the sum- Isle area (southern Jefferson and Less-intrepid birders would best mer months in non-breeding mode Lafourche parishes) provides excel- be advised to limit their southwest- in regions well to the south. lent shorebirding opportunities, ern Louisiana shorebirding to the This summering phenomenon particularly along Bay Tartellon at public “wildlife drives” located at the has been documented to various de- Port Fourchon, on Elmer’s Island western edge of the Lacassine Na- grees through numerous bird groups, just west of Grand Isle, and in many tional Wildlife Refuge and eastern but none so frequently, consistently, places on Grand Isle itself, including edge of the Cameron Prairie Nation- and as widespread as with the shore- Grand Isle State Park. al Wildlife Refuge, both located in birds. Here in Louisiana, summer- As previously mentioned, almost northeastern Cameron Parish. ing/non-breeding instances are most all of the “Rice Country” of south- The beaches, marshes, and pas- evident among the beach-loving spe- western Louisiana provides out- tures along coastal Cameron Parish cies, but also occur in other species standing shorebirding on a near-year also provide excellent shorebirding with marsh and short-grass habitat round basis. Best opportunities exist throughout most of the year. Best preferences. throughout most of Acadia, Ver- opportunities exist at Rutherford During any late-June outing milion, Jefferson Davis, and north- Beach, Holly Beach, and Martin then, bird biologists are faced with eastern Cameron parishes. Here, Beach – all easily accessible off of LA an annually-occurring conundrum: most of the shorebirds are found on 82. Are the non-breeding species which private lands, operated by rice/craw- In terms of seasonality, shorebird- we are encountering unusually-late

Greater Yellowlegs Greg Lavaty

13 spring migrants, or are they actually summering here? The answer, as best as we presently know it, is “a little of both.” Similarly, by July the question becomes, “Are we encountering early-fall migrants (a substantial number of migratory shorebird species initiate fall migration by mid-summer), or, are these summering individuals?” Thus far, no shorebird or migratory bird researcher has come up with a methodology to solve this problem on a bird-by-bird basis. The list of species falling into this curious category within the coastal zone of Louisiana is substantial, and includes Black-bellied Plover, Semipalmated Plover, American Avocet, Greater Yellowlegs, Lesser Yellowlegs, Ruddy Turnstone, Red Knot, Sanderling, Western Sandpip- er, Least Sandpiper, and Short-billed Dowitcher. The absolute peaks in both species diversity and sheer numbers of individuals occur in Louisiana during spring migration between mid-April and mid-May, and again from August through October during fall migration. Winter shorebirding is normally excellent to out- standing, particularly in the Grand Isle and rice country regions, with over 20 species regularly overwintering in these areas. Detailed Louisiana shorebird records date back to those of J.J. Audu- bon in the early 19th century. Over a century later, ornithologist Harry C. Oberholser compiled the shorebird records of over 40 contributing ornithologists, biological surveyors, and collectors in his book, The Bird Life of Louisiana, published in 1938 by the Louisiana Department of Conservation. In it, he listed a total Killdeer of 37 shorebird species (along with

Greg Lavaty numerous sub-species, as was the

14 common practice in those days) for Fairly Common American Oystercatcher our state. Wilson’s Plover Upland Sandpiper Over the ensuing years, more spe- Semipalmated Plover Long-billed Curlew cies have been added as both identi- American Avocet Hudsonian Godwit fication skills and seasonal coverage Spotted Sandpiper White-rumped Sandpiper have increased. Today, a total of 45 Solitary Sandpiper Baird’s Sandpiper shorebird species have been recorded Whimbrel Buff-breasted Sandpiper for Louisiana, 37 of which occur Marbled Godwit Wilson’s Phalarope here on a regular annual basis. Red Knot Regarding relative abundance of Semipalmated Sandpiper Occasional/Accidental various shorebird species in Lou- Stilt Sandpiper (few records) isiana, it should be remembered Pectoral Sandpiper Lesser Sand-Plover that values such as abundant (“will Short-billed Dowitcher Mountain Plover see”), common (“should see”), and Black-tailed Godwit uncommon (“might see”) apply to Uncommon Purple Sandpiper shorebirds on a local basis only. American Golden-Plover Curlew Sandpiper Thus, relative abundance terms must Snowy Plover Ruff, Red-necked Phalarope be modified to “locally abundant,” Piping Plover Red Phalarope “locally common,” etc. due to the specific nature of shorebird habitat preferences. Too, seasonality must be taken into account when assessing relative abundance, as most shorebirds are strongly migratory. Louisi- ana’s roster of shorebird species may be thusly divided, along with the caveats of “in appropriate habitats” and “in appropriate seasons” to each of the following values:

Abundant Killdeer

Common Black-bellied Plover Black-necked Stilt Greater Yellowlegs Willet Lesser Yellowlegs Ruddy Turnstone Sanderling Western Sandpiper Least Sandpiper Dunlin Long-billed Dowitcher Wilson’s Snipe American Woodcock Marbled Godwit Greg Lavaty

15 OBSERVING & IDENTIFYING

bserving some ward. All an observer needs to do is age treatment facilities, and here in shorebirds – species find the right place at the right time Louisiana, especially in rice/craw- such as American in which to encounter them. Over fish fields that are in the process of Oystercatcher, time, observers learn that the best being flooded or drained, creating a American Avocet, places to find most shorebirds are mosaic of wet, dry, and damp places Long-billedO Curlew, and Black- in wetland settings, especially where – effectively mimicking natural tidal necked Stilt – all of which possess two or more habitat types converge, actions in estuarine settings. larger body sizes and starkly con- such as where tidal pool-studded Unfortunately, simply finding trasting plumage patterns on a year salt-marshes meet open beaches; or proper shorebird habitats is not the round basis, is easy and straightfor- in artificial settings such as sewer- primary challenge to observing and identifying most shorebird species, for most are relatively small birds possessing multiple, and often cryptic plumage patterns over the course of each year. Here in Louisiana, due in no small part to our geographical location, observers annually view individual birds of many species in full breeding (alternate) plumage, full wintering (basic) plumage, sub- adult plumage, and many variations in between. In all of these instances, the ability to focus on fine and subtle details in order to identify the bird in question – the presence or absence of “eyebrows,” eye-lines, eye- rings, streaked or unstreaked crowns, Dunlin streaked or clear underparts – is

Richard DeMay paramount. Richard DeMay

16 OBSERVING &

Piping Plover Richard DeMay

17 lightweight equipment, as walks of various distances and constant repositioning of the scope/tripod are common necessities. Smaller-bodied scopes featuring high-light-disper- sion optics in “fixed” powers of 20-30X are best. Some observers prefer variable-power optics, most often 20-60X, which can offer some advantage. Remember, however, that heat wave distortion and shallow depth-of-field problems often ensue at powers above 30X. When consid- Least Sandpiper and ering the purchase of a scope/tripod Semipalmated Sandpiper for shorebirding purposes, first seek advice from experienced shore- Richard DeMay birders via local bird clubs, nature The most important identifi- between breeding and non-breeding centers, and wildlife refuge visitors cation character upon which an plumages. centers. observer should first focus is the In summary, when studying After only a little practice with appearance of the bird’s bill. What shorebirds, especially the smaller, a spotting scope and tripod set- is its relative length? Shape? Color- more cryptically-colored species, fo- up, observers find careful study of ation? Using the bird’s head as a cus first on the bird’s bill, ascertain- shorebirds to be far easier, conve- measure, compare bill length to head ing relative length, exact shape, and nient, and even leisurely compared length. If bill length is longer, then coloration, moving next to markings to working with binoculars. Soon, how many times longer than head (or lack thereof) on the face and one will experience the value of such length? Bills of many shorebird spe- crown, then progressing to body equipment when sorting through cies also possess distinctive shapes. Is plumage and flight-feather (wings, mixed flocks comprised of hundreds the bill straight or curved? If curved, tail) markings, and finally leg length of shorebirds, which is more often is it curved downward (decurved) or and coloration. All the while, listen than not the case in shorebirding. upward (recurved)? Is the bill evenly for vocalizations, which in some In such large, mixed-flock situations, curved, or is it somewhat straight, cases are the best identifying feature learning comes quickly, with many but “droops” up or down toward the upon which to rely. opportunities for direct comparison tip? Obviously then, shorebird obser- of bill appearance, body size, plum- Noting coloration of both bill vation and identification requires age patterns, and leg details, both and legs is also useful. Note whether optical equipment over and above between and within species. the bill is bicolored or unicolored the usual 7-9X binoculars used by As with researching proper (concolored). Leg coloration is most birdwatchers. In most cases, optical equipment, shorebirding quite diverse across many species. attempting to study the fine details students should seek opportunities Note whether legs are pale or dark, necessary for shorebird identifica- to go out into the field in the compa- then determine color hue, which tion through hand-held binoculars is ny of experienced observers. As with can range from straw-yellow, or- impracticable. Hands soon tire and most endeavors, there is simply no ange-yellow, flesh-colored, reddish, viewing becomes shaky after only substitute for experience. Many ex- greenish, blueish, grayish, or black. short periods of time. Thus, a good perienced shorebirders welcome the Understand that leg color varies not quality spotting scope mounted on opportunity to pass along tips, not only between species, but also within a sturdy yet portable tripod becomes only for the benefit of the student, some species, as numerous shore- essential. but also to reinforce such informa- birds exhibit differing leg coloration Experienced shorebirders prefer tion in their own minds.

18 Louisiana Breeding Shorebirds

The vast majority of the world’s shorebirds nest far north in tundra or tiaga habitats. In North America, 43 species nest in Alaska alone. Only a small percentage breed at tropical/sub-tropical latitudes. Here in Louisiana seven species annually nest, ranging from the common and ubiquitously distributed Killdeer to the rare and isolated Snowy Plover.

Willet Richard DeMay

19 Greg Lavaty

20 Snowy Plover Charadrius alexandrinus

The U.S. breeding range of the expert Dennis Paulson as the “Beach Snowy Plover is comprised of a cu- Ghost,” the Snowy Plover is a small, rious mix of inland alakali ponds in sand-colored bird that differs from the Great Basin and southern Great other U.S. small plover species in its Plains as well as the beaches of the lack of a complete breast-band. This Pacific and Gulf Coasts. A species character, combined with its notably of conservation concern throughout thin black bill and gray legs, distin- its patchy breeding range, recent guishes it from the similar-appearing estimates put the U.S. population of but stubbier-billed, yellow-legged, Snowy Plover at 18,000 individuals, Piping Plover. When encountered, with the majority breeding in the the Snowy Plover sits low upon the Greg Lavaty interior locales. The Pacific Coast sand rather than running for cover. ally went unreported all year long. population is comprised of about Compared to other plover species, Still, even back then he suspected 2,000 individuals, and the Gulf of Snowy Plovers possess relatively that it might be nesting here on Mexico/Caribbean population hov- short legs and wings. secluded barrier island beaches. ers around 2,500 birds. Presently, non-breeding Snowy Louisiana’s first Snowy Plover Plover records have picked up some- nest was not recorded until 1994 what since Lowery’s time. At certain in Cameron Parish. More recently, times during migration periods it during Louisiana’s first ever compre- can become fairly common along hensive ground-based beach-nesting our beaches; less so over the winter bird census held in 2005, only two months, and quite scarce during the pairs of Snowy Plovers, both in summer months. It is only rarely en- Cameron Parish, were encountered countered inland during migration. along the state’s 322-mile beach-sur- As with other plovers, Snowy Plo- vey route. Five years later during the vers consume a wide variety of prey 2010 census, presumably the same Greg Lavaty including insects, small worms, and two nesting pair were again found in In fall, interior populations of amphipods (very small shrimp like Cameron Parish along with the first this species migrate to wintering crustaceans) all considered common ever record of a nesting pair in lower grounds along tropical beaches. invertebrates living on or just below Plaquemines Parish in southeastern Prior to the mid-20th century, the the surface of Louisiana beaches. Louisiana. Thus, after 21 years, it Snowy Plover was considered a rare Normally site predators, Snowy seems that this species’ breeding transient in Louisiana, with records Plovers chase down their food, how- status here is still only barely estab- confined to spring and fall migration ever, like Piping Plovers, Snowies lished. As with all beach-nesting periods only. By 1974 (third edition sometime use “foot trembling” as a species, human recreation, particu- of Louisiana Birds) George Lowery, method of finding prey where they larly in the form of ATV usage on Jr. commented that it “seems to be quickly tap the surface of the sand beaches, constitutes a major threat. rapidly passing from the Louisiana repeatedly. This helps them locate Referred to by U.S. shorebird scene,” and noted that it occasion- small worms in particular.

21 Wilson’s Plover Charadrius wilsonia

Similar in appearance to the In 1938, Harry Oberholser listed pairs and help biologists understand Snowy Plover, but a bit larger, is Wil- Wilson’s Plover as a permanent whether data from the 2010 survey son’s Plover, which possesses a much resident in coastal Louisiana, com- was an anomaly or a continuation of larger bill than the former (Wilson’s mon in summer, somewhat more a trend in population. was once known as the “Thick-billed numerous during migration periods, Today, Wilson’s Plover’s Louisi- Plover), as well as a more substantial but with only one winter record - ana status remains broadly about the upper breast band. When encoun- December 12, 1931 in Grand Isle. same as it was a century or more ago. tered, Wilson’s Plover tends to run By the latter part of the 20th century, It is not known whether this recent relatively long distances, whereas its status remained the same here: spike in winter sightings is due to common in spring, summer, and increased observer effort or perhaps fall, and extremely rare in winter. global climate change. The same Most recently, Wilson’s Plover could be said for the more recent has been designated a species of perceived increases in breeding conservation concern, and is listed populations. Traditionally, Wilson’s as threatened or endangered in a Plovers retire to tropical coasts in number of Atlantic Coast states. In winter and have been considered 2001, a rough estimate of the conti- rare anywhere north of the Florida nental population was put at 6,000 peninsula during that season. individuals. In Louisiana, a 2005 The primary diet of Wilson’s beach-nesting bird survey revealed a Plover is fiddler crabs often making total of 759 pairs (1,518 individuals) up over 90% of their diet. These of Wilson’s Plover. However, five birds use their large beaks to dis-

Greg Lavaty years later, a similar survey docu- lodge crabs, shaking them vigorously the Snowy Plover tends to hunker mented nearly twice as many breed- to dislodge legs and pinchers. A down on the sand. Wilson’s Plover ing pair. Future surveys will help very small percentage of their diet is is also similar in appearance to the define the population of breeding insects. Semipalmated Plover, but possesses longer, duller-colored legs than the latter, along with a much thicker all- black bill in all plumages. The breeding range of Wilson’s Plover is restricted to the beaches of the mid-Atlantic Coast southward through Florida and westward around the entire rim of the Gulf of Mexico. Another breeding population exists along the lower Pacific Coast of Mexico northward to Baja,

California. Greg Lavaty

22 Greg Lavaty

23 Greg Lavaty

24 Killdeer Charadrius vociferus

Well-known throughout most tic foraging behavior of this species. adapted to human-modified urban states and provinces in North Killdeer have been recorded and suburban settings, so long as the America, the Killdeer is one of the nesting in nearly every Louisiana landscape is relatively treeless, such continent’s largest plovers. Easily parish, and using every imaginable as golf courses, ball fields, play- identified by its loud and frequent open-country rocky/gravelly sub- grounds, and parks. vocalizations alone, the Killdeer’s strate in which to build its simple Killdeer are especially numerous heavily-etched double breast band scrape – including busy gravel in and around short-grass pastures and long, yellowish-orange tail pro- roads and parking lots! Even many and agricultural fields; and each win- vide immediate visual recognition as non-birdwatchers are aware of the ter our sizable resident population well. Killdeer’s “broken wing tactic,” in is augmented by many more birds The Killdeer is in fact the noisiest which it feigns injury by deliberately which pour in from points north. of all shorebird species, uttering a hanging one or both wings dragging Peak winter density occurs along the variety of vocalizations depending on the ground as it limps away – vocaliz- Interstate-10 corridor, where over circumstances. Its breeding display ing in mock terror all the while – in the years the Crowley, Lafayette, and call is a high-pitched, thin, rolling, attempts to lure intruders away from Baton Rouge Christmas Bird Counts echoing “teedee-year!” When dis- its nest. have all recorded top national high- turbed or flushed, it gives a strong, In short order, this bird has easily counts for this species. clear “Tee-dee-dee!” often uttered so rapidly that it transforms into a trill. Its normal “killdeer!” call is strong and penetrating as well, often heard as a steadily repeated “Dee-yee!” or “Tee-wee!” As with several other plover species, Killdeer occasionally employ a “foot stir” technique when foraging; making rapid, trembling foot-tapping motions to either stir up or attract prey as they move forward. All plovers are very alert, visual foragers, possessing eyes that seem a bit large for their heads. In this regard the Killdeer is no different; and along with the Black-bellied Plover, is an active nocturnal forager and flier as well. A wide array of invertebrates makes for a Killdeer’s meal. Insects, crustaceans, worms, and many other

small critters fall to the opportunis- Greg Lavaty

25 American Oystercatcher Haematopus palliatus

With its stark, bold color pat- stout, knife-like bill with which it Oystercatcher was “formerly appar- tern and large crow-sized body, pries open oysters and other bivalved ently much more numerous” here. the easily-identifiable American mollusks. By the mid-20th century, George Oystercatcher is almost cartoon-like In North America, the American Lowery, Jr. maintained its status as in appearance. Unfortunately for Oystercatcher possesses a breeding rare in Louisiana, with breeding birders, it is a shy, wary bird, prefer- range very similar to that of Wilson’s records confined to the Chandeleur ring isolated sandy or rocky stretches Plover, confined to secluded beach Island chain. With the publication along secluded beaches. This behav- habitats along the Atlantic, Gulf, of the third edition of Louisiana ior, combined with low population and southern Pacific Coasts. Since Birds (1974), Lowery mentioned a numbers, makes any encounter with the beginning of ornithological first-ever nest record for this species this species a real treat. record-keeping here in the United west of the Mississippi River Delta Plover-like in behavior, posture, States, this species has always main- (Timbalier Island, 1973) since Audu- and overall appearance, the Amer- tained its highest population density bon’s 1837 report from the Isles ican Oystercatcher is able to run on the Atlantic Coast. Dernieres. rapidly, as well as to occasionally Considered a rare permanent Though both Oberholser and swim and even dive with ease. It pos- resident in Louisiana by Oberholser Lowery considered the American sesses strong, thick legs and a long, in1938, he added that the American Oystercatcher to be a rare perma- Greg Lavaty

26 Greg Lavaty nent resident here, their listings completed in the summer of 2005, small vegetated islands, many pairs (which together spanned over 100 57 pairs (114 individuals) of Ameri- of American Oystercatcher were years) lacked any winter records for can Oystercatchers were tallied over documented, some even using the it. Today, this species is considered a 322-mile coastal beach route. Five smallest of bare sand or shell beach uncommon year round throughout years later, a similar survey docu- areas. The latest (2001) estimate for the entire Louisiana coast, including mented more than twice the number the entire North American conti- a fairly substantial number of winter of breeding pairs. This was due in nental population was 7,500 total records. large part to surveying additional individuals. The American Oyster- Most recently, in Louisiana’s small islands that comprise the Mis- catcher is a species of high conserva- first-ever comprehensive ground- sissippi Sound area that were not vis- tion concern throughout much of its based beach-nesting bird survey ited in 2005. Here, with numerous North American distribution range.

27 Greg Lavaty

28 Black-necked Stilt Himantopus mexicanus

Its bold black and white color mentioning instances in which birds Louisiana, and common to fairly pattern has earned the Black-necked were nesting in pastures “where common year round in our south- Stilt the nickname “Tuxedo Bird.” numerous cattle are apparently a western coastal zone. In its central This, along with its long red legs and menace to its safety.” and northern Louisiana haunts, loud, whining, “keef! Keef!” or “kek! In both his first (1955) and third the Black-necked Stilt is considered kek!” vocalizations make it instantly (1974) editions of Louisiana Birds, uncommon to common during the recognizable wherever it is encoun- George Lowery, Jr. referred to the spring/summer breeding season, tered. Black-necked Stilt as “confined to and into early fall. Historically, the Black-necked the coast, especially the southwest Black-necked Stilt employ a more Stilt has been primarily a bird of Louisiana coastal zone” where he leisurely feeding behavior, often New World tropical marshes, reach- considered it a “regular summer resi- found wading through water in ing peak population densities in dent,” with “a few overwintering.” search of insects both at the surface Central and South America. Today, Today, this species is considered and below the surface of the water. however, it nests along most all U.S. common in spring and summer and Opportunistic in behavior, this coasts from Maryland southward uncommon in fall and winter within species will consume all sorts of through the entire Gulf Coast and the coastal zone of southeastern both aquatic and terrestrial insects. up the entire Pacific Coast of North America up through California. It also nests in U.S. interior marshes in the Great Basin, southern Arizona and New Mexico, and up the Missis- sippi River Valley through Memphis. Besides nesting in marsh habitats throughout Louisiana’s coastal zone, the Black-necked Stilt has adapted to nesting on the levees of actively-growing rice fields all the way up into such interior rice-growing parishes as Rapides, Natchitoches, Concordia, Morehouse, and East and West Car- roll. In such settings, the starkness of this bird’s black, white, and red color pattern against a backdrop of bright spring-green rice is dramatic indeed. In 1938, ornithologist Harry C. Oberholser (Bird Life of Louisiana) considered the Black-necked Stilt

“a rare permanent resident,” also Greg Lavaty

29 Willet Tringa semipalmata

Plain gray-brown and unadorned, this large, stout-legged, thick-billed shorebird often initially presents a puzzle to observers who encounter it – until it flies off, that is, exhibiting boldly “zebra-patterned” black and white wings and sounding its characteristic “Clee-leelee!” alarm call. True to its name, its territorial breeding song is a loud, rolling “pill-Will-WIL- LET!” George Lowery, Jr. mentioned “vire-vire” as a Cajun French nickname for this species, in obvious reference to its vocalizations. Willets breed in marshland and grassland habitats along the entire

Atlantic and Gulf coasts of the Greg Lavaty United States as well as in the Great Basin and northern Great Plains of the United States and south-central Canada. In Louisiana, Willets most often use immediate beach and back-beach dune and marsh habitats for both foraging and nesting. Birds migrating in and out of the state – to and from points west and north – are fairly commonly observed in the rice country of south-central and southwestern Louisiana, and are occasionally encountered inland into northwestern Louisiana. Willets are most often encountered singly or in groups of a few individuals; but occasionally can be observed in groups of up to a few dozen birds. Miscellaneous records (1967-2004) taken from individual islands within the Chandeleur Island chain during Greg Lavaty

30 the month of June have totaled 50- For the past 150 years, the Willet tic feeder, Willets consume all sorts 200 Willets at a time on a number has been considered a common of invertebrates including insects of occasions. permanent resident (augmented by and crustaceans. Using several Over the years, a number of numerous migrants in fall, winter, feeding techniques to find and catch observers have reported a propensity and spring) throughout Louisiana’s prey, this species is as comfortable for some individuals, possibly territo- coastal zone. Today, the year round feeding at night as it is during the rial males, to perch up high on fence status of the Willet remains much day. Although it must be said that posts, low trees, and even buildings the same as it has since the early to other species of shorebirds also – a decidedly unusual behavior mid-19th century. forage during the night, more so on amongst shorebirds. Another generalist or opportunis- nights with some moonlight. Greg Lavaty

31 American Woodcock Scolopax minor

Unlike any other shorebird, the American Woodcock is adapted to spending much of its life in wood- land niches. Slightly larger than a robin, this species is a large-chested, short-legged, and long-billed shorebird with a characteristically dumpy appearance. Its gorgeously-patterned cryptically-colored plumage recalls that of our native sparrows. Unlike most shorebirds, the American Woodcock’s wings are short and broad, with more rounded tips, allowing a more explosively-ver- tical helicopter-like launch when disturbed in its densely-wooded roosting habitat. Its prominent eyes hint at its nocturnal foraging habits. Woodcocks roost in dense forest thickets by day, flying out each dusk into open, moist to muddy ground where they probe for earthworms, grubs, and slugs. Foraging habitats vary geographically, and include agricultural fields, open margins of lakes or streams, damp meadows, pastures, utility rights-of-ways, and the like. Woodcock flight is buoyant and erratic; bat or butterfly-like. Upon flushing, its rapidly beating wings give off a characteristic “doodling” sound, similar to that of some dove species. By day, Woodcocks are so retiring in habit that relatively few birders chance to see them. More often they are encountered by hunters who flush them while pursuing other

Greg Lavaty game. Too, some hunters specialize

32 in hunting Woodcock using Brittany flight path, following each other one takes place from mid to late spring spaniels or other pointer-type dogs. bird at a time. and into early summer. American Woodcock and Wilson’s The American Woodcock breeds In any case, Louisiana’s Wood- Snipe are the only two North Amer- throughout most of eastern North cock population swells many times ican shorebird species that can be America from southeastern Canada over each winter, when local birds legally hunted. southward through the coastal plain are joined by large numbers of For those wishing to simply forests of the Gulf Coast states. In northerly-breeding birds. As with observe Woodcocks, the best season Louisiana, the “becasse,” as it is many species of waterfowl, the densi- is winter, the best time is at dusk, known in Cajun French, is consid- ty of the overwintering population at and the best places are along the ered a thinly-distributed and irreg- this latitude is dictated each year by interfaces of dense bottomland ular breeder – a status which might the severity of winter weather to our hardwood forests of any size and well change if breeding bird survey- immediate north. In milder winters, muddy agricultural fields. In prime ors focused on the very early spring more Woodcocks overwinter to our settings, Woodcocks use the same period, particularly the months of north; in colder winters, they move flight path between forest and field February and March, which is when as far south as necessary to escape each evening; and in many cases a local Woodcocks are said to breed. frozen foraging habitats. number of birds will use the same Normally, breeding bird survey work Greg Lavaty

33 Piping Plover

PACIFIC OCEAN

Migration Routes/Ranges of Selected Species

American Golden Plover ATLANTIC Least Sandpiper OCEAN Piping Plover

The arrows represent the general paths followed by many migratory birds during their spring and autumn migrations. In fact, migratory birds returning from Central and South America in spring cross the Gulf of Mexico, landing anywhere from east Texas to Florida. The same is true for autumn migration. There is no one place where all birds flock before they begin their journeys south across the Gulf of Mexico. Although different places along the gulf coast can serve as jumping off points, you can see that Louisiana is indeed a crossroad for many birds.

American Golden Plover

Least Sandpiper Diane K. Baker

34 Louisiana’s Common Non-Breeding Shorebirds

Thirty species of North American shorebirds regularly occur in Loui- siana on an annual basis, many of which actually spend more time here than they do on their breeding grounds. A substantial number of the non-breeding species discussed herein are regularly recorded in our state 9 to12 months out of each year!

Long-billedLong-billed Curlew Curlew Greg Lavaty

35 Greg Lavaty

36 Black-bellied Plover Pluvialis squatarola

Slightly larger than a Killdeer, night – earned it the nickname, Black-bellied Plover forages in groups the Black-bellied Plover can only be “Whistling Plover.” of various sizes (depending on den- confused with the Golden Plover Known for its swift powerful sity of prey items), but maintains a in its stark black and white breeding flight, this species breeds in the high substantial amount of space between plumage, differing from the latter in Arctic tundra of Canada and north- individuals. In the rice fields it loose- its white undertail and black axillar ern Alaska and winters throughout ly associates with a number of sand- feathers. In its winter/non-breeding all North and Central American piper species, focusing on muddy/ plumage, however, it is quite plain coasts down into South America. non-flooded areas, and occasionally mottled charcoal/white above and Preferred winter habitat includes in very shallow (<1”) water. pale brownish gray below. Its promi- tidal flats of beaches as well as short- Because a number of individuals nent head and steep forehead earned grass prairies, pastures, and other tend to “summer” along the Lou- it market-hunter nicknames such as fields near the coast. In Louisiana, isiana coast each year, Oberholser “Bullhead” and “Beetle Head.” Its it also finds good foraging ground in- (1938) called this species a “fairly frequently uttered, plaintive “pee- land on muddy harvested rice fields. common permanent resident.” In er-weee” call – uttered both day and As with most plover species, the his mid-to-late 20th century writings, George Lowery, Jr. reported the Black-bellied Plover to be “numerous on the coast, but seldom seen inland, even in migration.” Today, the Black-bellied Plover is considered common from late summer through late spring along the southeastern Louisiana coast; uncommon in June and the first half of July. Along the southwestern coast it is considered common year round; absent only in the last of June. Since the days of Oberholser and Lowery, inland records have picked up con- siderably. Today, the Black-bellied Plover is considered uncommon to common in the rice country of southwestern Louisiana from July through late May, with a smattering of records in June. In northwestern Louisiana it is considered rare but regular during migration periods (late-April - late-May; early-August -

Greg Lavaty early-November).

37 American Golden Plover Pluvialis dominica

Similar to the Black-bellied Plo- ern Atlantic Ocean in late summer By the mid-20th century George ver in structure and plumages, the and flying a non-stop 2,500-mile Lowery, Jr. reported it as “common American Golden-Plover is slightly first leg to northern South America. in spring; occasional along the coast smaller in size and features a slightly In spring, birds proceed northward in fall and into winter.” smaller, slimmer bill. In breeding through the middle of the Americas. Today, the American Golden-Plo- plumage, feathers on its mottled up- This species prefers more upland ver is considered uncommon in perparts are edged in golden-yellow. short-grass habitats, only using wet- spring and rare in fall (with isolated The American Golden-Plover ter sandy/muddy substrates when records in February and November) breeds throughout the Arctic tundra dense concentrations of prey species along the coastal zone of southeast- of North America from Alaska are present. ern Louisiana. Within the south- through the Atlantic coast of Can- In 1938, Oberholser considered western Louisiana coastal zone it ada, and winters far southward in this species to be a rare statewide mi- is decidedly more common during southern South America. This spe- grant in Louisiana, somewhat more spring (March-May) migration, cies possesses an elliptical migration common within the coastal zone; with scattered records in fall from route, launching out over the west- and “much reduced in recent years.” mid-September through mid-Novem- ber. In northwestern Louisiana it is considered a common spring migrant (mid-February-mid-April) and uncommon to rare in fall. Records in northeastern Louisiana are rare, and confined to early spring. Considering its elliptical migration route, it is interesting that the American Golden-Plover should be detected at all in Louisiana during fall migration periods. Lowery considered most fall-to-early-winter records in Louisiana to consist of young “hatch-year” birds. This species is the most visible, active, and numerous of North America’s small plovers (genus Cha- radrius). Compared to other small plovers, the Semipalmated Plover possesses dark-brown upperparts, a short bi-colored black/orange bill and vivid orange legs, along with a bold blackish breast-band. Greg Lavaty

38 Greg Lavaty

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40 Semipalmated Plover Charadrius semipalmatus

The Semipalmated Plover breeds ana, with some individuals possibly to which it closely resembles. Over across most Arctic and sub-Arctic re- remaining through the summer time, however, detailed taxonomic gions in North America, and winters months. At the time (1938), he also studies have maintained these two along tropical and sub-tropical coasts suspected it to overwinter in small as separate species. from the U.S. Pacific, mid-Atlantic, numbers along coastal beaches and Presently, the Semipalmated and Gulf coasts southward through barrier islands, but possessed “no Plover is considered common in mi- most of coastal South America. It authentic winter records” from that gration, uncommon in winter, and is especially attracted to tidal mud season. rare in June and July throughout the flats, but can also be found foraging By 1955 ( Louisiana Birds Louisiana coast. In northwestern on sandy beaches, often in the com- 1st ed.), George Lowery, Jr. reported Louisiana it is uncommonly record- pany of Sanderlings. that this species was perhaps “con- ed during spring (April 04-May 27) In the early 20th century, Ober- specific” (the same species) with an and fall (mid-July through early holser reported it as a fairly common Old World species, the Common October) migration periods; rarer spring and fall transient in Louisi- Ringed Plover (Charadrius hiaticula), still in northeastern Louisiana. Greg Lavaty

41 Piping Plover Charadrius melodus

Superficially, the Piping Plover The Piping Plover breeds tion of 6,000 individuals across the appears as a sort of “cross” between sparingly along the sandy shores three different geographically located a Semiplamated Plover and a Snowy of freshwater lakes and rivers in breeding populations remaining, this Plover; with breeding adults pos- the Great Plains and Great Lakes species is considered “threatened” sessing the same bill and leg color regions of North America, as well as and “endangered” under the En- patterns of the former along with along the north Atlantic coast from dangered Species Act. As such, it is the pale sandy colored upperparts Canada down to North Carolina. afforded special protection through- of the latter. Compared to those two Each winter, it drops down into the out its range. species, however, the Piping Plover southern Atlantic and Gulf coasts Through the early 20th century, is notably shorter-legged and more of the United States and on into Oberholser considered this species a compactly built. Mexico. With an estimated popula- rare to occasionally locally common migrant on beaches throughout the Louisiana coast, and at least a casual winter resident on the Mississippi River Delta (one record on January 22, 1932 from Octave Pass). By the mid-20th century, Lowery had provided the species’ first two inland records, both from the LSU Baton Rouge campus during the passage of hurricanes. Today, continuous records exist for the Piping Plover from August through April (along with 2 isolated June records) along the southeastern Louisiana coast, where its official status is “uncommon.” Along the southwestern coast it is considered fairly common in fall migration (late-July – early-October), dropping to uncommon from mid-October through mid-May. Piping Plover records are rare in inland Louisiana. It is only occasionally detected in the rice country during migration periods. In northwestern Louisiana, a smattering of spring and fall migration records exist, falling mostly

Greg Lavaty between mid-June and early October.

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44 American Avocet Recurvirostra americana

With a long bill, upswept (recurved) at the tip, and bold black and white color pattern, this long- legged, crow-sized shorebird can hardly be mistaken for any other species. During breeding season, its pale-gray head and neck become in- fused with a bright-cinnamon color, contrasting beautifully with its white body, black wings and scapulars, and relatively bright blue-gray legs. Even for its large size, the Avocet is a strong, rapid flier, with a flight style that resembles that of waterfowl – or more closely, of ibises. When foraging, Avocets prefer Greg Lavaty relatively deep, open water where John James Audubon furnished cet maintains a small but regular they often assemble into rows, the first Louisiana record for Amer- non-breeding summer presence driving prey ahead of them as they ican Avocet – from Bayou Saint in coastal Louisiana, but remains sweep their bills from side to side John in New Orleans on November uncommon to rare anywhere and at just beneath the surface, straining 2, 1819; and then again on Isles any season within the southeastern small invertebrates from the water. Dernieres where he noted three coastal zone. Along the southwestern They take larger prey items as well. individuals on April 16, 1837. Just coastal zone it is considered fairly Avocets are among the relatively few over 100 years later, Harry Ober- common to common, with numer- shorebird species which regularly holser characterized this species as ous records for every week of the swim. but a rare transient in the Louisiana year except for the second week of The American Avocet nests in coastal zone, with no authenticated August. alkaline marshes throughout much winter records. First recorded outside of the of western and mid-western North By the mid-1900s George Low- coastal zone in the fall of 1949 America. It winters from coastal ery, Jr. reported it as “appearing to (75 individuals 2 miles south of California southward to Guatemala, increase [in numbers] year to year,” Shreveport), the American Avocet is and along the southern Atlantic and “now common in extreme presently considered an uncommon Coast of the United States westward southwestern Louisiana in winter;” transient in northwestern Louisiana through the Gulf Coast at least as mentioning that none were reported from late winter through early May far south as Mexico. Non-breed- from here between 1899-1940. By (with a few June records) and again ing/“summering” individuals are 1974, in the third edition of Loui- from mid-July through late-Novem- often encountered lingering along siana Birds, he noted “records for ber. Only a few fall records exist the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of the every month of the year.” from northeastern Louisiana. United States. Presently, the American Avo-

45 Spotted Sandpiper Actitis macularius

This smallish, short-billed, short- legged, short-winged sandpiper is most often encountered alone or in small groups (in more favorable foraging areas) along the edges of water bodies of various sizes. When foraging it habitually teeters its posterior up and down, and flies low along the water with characteristically rapid, shallow wingbeats, often uttering its descending “peet-weet- weet-weet” call. True to its common name, the Spotted Sandpiper possesses numerous dark spots on its white Greg Lavaty underparts during breeding season, records throughout the coastal zone common nearly year round, with a but lacks any spotting whatsoever in for every week of the year. similar paucity of June and early July non-breeding plumage. Today, the Spotted Sandpiper records. Northwestern Louisiana Outside the lower South, the is considered fairly common along records show it to be a fairly com- Spotted Sandpiper nests along lake Louisiana’s southeastern coastal mon migrant in spring and fall; then shores and river banks throughout zone in every month except June uncommon to rare in winter, early most of the United States and Cana- and early July, though isolated spring, and early summer. In north- da. Its wintering grounds are equally records exist from that time period eastern Louisiana it is an uncom- expansive, stretching from the south- as well. Within the southwestern mon spring and fall migrant, with ern United States to southern Brazil coastal zone it is uncommon to records trickling into December. and Bolivia. In winter it seems particularly attracted to artificially-con- structed cement and rock rubble shorelines. One or more individuals are almost always to be found along rock jetties, oxidation ponds, and sewage treatment facilities. In 1938, Oberholser characterized this species as “common in migration, rare in summer and winter, mostly in southeastern Louisiana.” By 1955, Lowery had slightly refined its Louisiana status as rare only in

“mid-summer and mid-winter,” with Greg Lavaty

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47 Greg Lavaty

48 Solitary Sandpiper Tringa solitaria

As its common name implies, the Solitary Sandpiper is usually encountered singly, though small groups are occasionally observed together in spring migration along the U.S. Gulf Coast. This mid-sized sandpiper features very dark upperparts speckled with small white dots, crisp white eye-rings, a dark breast, and plain white underparts. This is the only shorebird species known to nest in trees, routinely using abandoned songbird nests. It nests throughout the sub-Arctic boreal forests across much of Alaska and Canada, and winters from Mex- ico and the West Indies southward through most of South America. Like the Spotted Sandpiper, it uti- lizes the margins of most any water body for foraging, often bobbing the front half of its body (vs. the rear half in the Spotted Sandpiper). In migration, it will even check for prey in small rain puddles wherever they may be found, from utility rights-of- Greg Lavaty ways to urban/suburban ball fields, stripe down the middle and dark Twenty-five years later, Lowery con- golf courses – even gravel parking bars on its outer tail feathers), and sidered it very common throughout lots! especially by its ascending (vs. de- Louisiana during migration, with In non-breeding plumages the scending in the Spotted) “peet-weet- “some stragglers” in south Louisiana Solitary Sandpiper superficially weet” whistle, which it frequently in winter. resembles the Spotted Sandpiper in gives when flushed. Today, this species is considered not only appearance but also in habi- In the early 20th century, Ober- an uncommon to rare migrant with- tat preference and foraging behavior. holser characterized the Solitary in the southeastern coastal zone, and During such periods, the Solitary Sandpiper as fairly common fairly common to uncommon in the can be safely separated from the throughout Louisiana during southwest. It is considered common “Spotty” by noting the slower deeper migration periods – especially in during migration periods in north- wingbeats of its all-dark wings, its the eastern part of the state – and western Louisiana; uncommon in shorter white tail (featuring a dark casual in winter in the coastal zone. the northeast.

49 The Yellowlegs Tringa melanoleuca and Tringa flavipes

company of several other waterbird Both Yellowlegs species breed in Due to their similarity in ap- species from which relative size com- boreal forest and muskeg habitats pearance, habits, distribution, and parisons can be made. through much of middle Canada, seasonality, we discuss the Greater Long legs, necks, and bills give with the Lesser Yellowlegs also Yellowlegs (Tringa melanoleuca) and both species a lanky appearance. utilizing the Yukon area in north- Lesser Yellowlegs (Tringa flavipes) Breeding, non-breeding, and juvenile western Canada and Alaska. Both together. Size is the primary distin- plumages of both species are striking- species winter throughout most of guishing factor between these two ly similar. Practiced observers learn the coastal United States southward species, with the Greater Yellowlegs to note the perfectly straight bill through most all of South America, approaching the size of a small crow of the Lesser Yellowlegs versus the using almost any available freshwater and the Lesser Yellowlegs more like slightly upturned bill of the Great- habitat from the edges of streams that of a robin. Problems arise when er Yellowlegs in order to separate and lakes, to vast marshes and wet either one is encountered with- them. Vocalizations are also fairly agricultural fields. out the other, especially at longer distinctive between the two, with When foraging, both Yellowlegs distances. Fortunately such scenarios the “too-too” of the Lesser being can be quite animated compared to are relatively rare, as both species flatter, milder, and shorter than the most other sandpiper species. Nor- tend to forage in the same habitats, more strident “few-few-few!” of the mally, they forage in small groups, and more often than not in the Greater. maintaining substantial spacing between themselves, constantly walk- ing and even occasionally running to chase down prey, much like the plovers do. At other times, especially when prey items are particularly dense, both species will work more tightly together in small groups, lowering their bills into the water as they move steadily ahead in a sort of plowing motion. The historical status of the Greater and Lesser Yellowlegs in Louisiana seems somewhat sketchy. In the early part of the 20th century, Oberholser lamented the decline of both Yellowlegs, blaming a combi- nation of over-hunting and habitat loss. He considered the Greater Yellowlegs to be a fairly common mi- Lesser Yellowlegs grant statewide, and an uncommon

Greg Lavaty winter resident in south Louisiana.

50 Referring to the Lesser Yellowlegs as coastal zone, with records available of the year (rare only between mid- the “Summer Yellowlegs,” he fixed for every month of the year. He gave June and early July) throughout the its Louisiana status as a common the status of the Greater Yellowlegs coastal zone of Louisiana. In the winter resident near the coast, more as common statewide in migration, northern half of the state, both spe- numerous in migration, and casual and fairly common to uncommon cies are considered common during in summer within the coastal zone. within the coastal zone during win- their protracted spring and fall By 1955 Lowery considered ter, depending on severity of weath- migration periods, with the Greater the Lesser Yellowlegs to be fairly er; and by 1974 furnished records for Yellowlegs becoming uncommon to common to abundant statewide in every month of the year. rare in mid-winter, and the Lesser migration, and rare to uncommon Today, both Yellowlegs species are Yellowlegs absent altogether in that in winter and summer within the considered common through much season.

Greater Yellowlegs Greg Lavaty

51 Greg Lavaty

52 Upland Sandpiper Bartramia longicauda

Similar in size, shape, and color- why the papabotte was once killed in isiana Birds, Lowery had upgraded ation to the Greater Yellowlegs, this such great numbers.” its migratory status to “often quite terrestrial sandpiper can be quickly Despite great hunting pressure, common.” differentiated from the latter by its both Lowery (1955) and his Louisi- Currently, the Upland Sandpiper disproportionately small head, large ana predecessor, Harry Oberholser is considered an uncommon to rare eyes, short yellow bill, and long dark (1938), fixed the Upland Sandpiper’s spring and fall transient throughout tail – not to mention its predilection Louisiana status as a “once abun- all of Louisiana; perhaps a bit more for dry short-grass habitats. dant; now fairly common” spring commonly encountered within the For years, this sandpiper was and fall migrant through the state. pastures and meadows of our south- called the “Upland Plover,” un- By the late 20th century, with the western Louisiana rice country. doubtedly due to its terrestrial publication of his 3rd edition of Lou- habits. Like most plovers, it forages rapidly and visually, chasing down insects with its trademark jerky, mechanical, head movements. The Upland Sandpiper breeds in short-grass prairies, pastures, and meadows throughout the northeastern Great Lakes and Great Plains regions of the United States, northwest through the Canadian prairies up through the Yukon of the Northwest Territories and Alaska. It winters far south in the pampas of southern South America. As with a number of other large sandpipers, the Upland Sandpiper was once hunted unmercifully by sportsmen and market-hunters alike, who called it the “Field Plover,” or “Quailie.” In French Louisiana it was known as the “papabotte” (pron. “Pop-oh-BAUT”). In Louisiana Birds George Lowery, Jr. mentions, “There is an old French idea that those who eat the flesh of this bird are imbued with extraordinary amatory prowess. Possibly this belief coupled with the

delicacy of its flesh was the reason Greg Lavaty

53 Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus

This crow-sized shorebird Historically known as the “Hud- status on but a few summer records possesses a long strongly-decurved sonian Curlew,” the Whimbrel is and only one winter record. By the bill and can thus be easily separated a cosmopolitan breeder, nesting in middle and latter parts of the 20th from most other shorebird species, Arctic tundra habitat around the century, not much had changed with the exception of the Long- globe, and wintering on all tropical regarding this species’ Louisiana billed Curlew and the Bristle-thigh- coasts as far south as Chile. Whim- status, as it was considered common ed Curlew (the latter, a rare North brels utilize a wide assortment of only during spring migration; rare American breeder not yet recorded habitat types including marshes, in all other seasons. In 1974 George in Louisiana). However, the Whim- beaches and dunes, rocky shorelines, Lowery, Jr. (Louisiana Birds, 3rd brel differs from these two curlews plains and meadows, as well as wet ed.) stated that the Whimbrel was in possessing a dark crown split agricultural fields. restricted to the coastal parishes down the middle by a fairly wide, In 1938, Harry Oberholser in Louisiana, with but one record cream-colored stripe. Fortunately, reported the Whimbrel’s Louisiana coming from elsewhere. this field mark can be noted from status as “a rather rare permanent Presently, the Whimbrel is con- rather long distances, for Whimbrels resident on the islands, marshes, sidered an uncommon spring and are wary birds, rarely allowing close and prairies along the coast.” He rare fall migrant along Louisiana’s inspection. hinged its “permanent resident” southeastern coast, with only a couple of winter records from that area. Within the southwestern coastal zone, its status ranges from fairly common in spring, to uncommon or rare at other seasons. In that part of the state, it has been recorded nearly year round, with the exception of a three-week period between late- June and early-July. Farther inland, many records have piled up since Lowery’s time. Today the Whimbrel is an uncommon to fairly common spring migrant through the rice belt of southwestern/central Louisiana; but with very few records coming from elsewhere. One such record involves a very rare fall migration (late August) report from the Upper Ouachita National Wildlife Refuge in Union Parish, north of Monroe, LA. Greg Lavaty

54 Greg Lavaty

55 Greg Lavaty

56 Long-billed Curlew Numenius americanus

The aptly-named Long-billed along the coast and adjacent mead- out their wild cries at the slightest Curlew possesses a bill bordering on ows from late July through late May; alarm.” “grotesquely-long.” Weighing in at especially numerous in migration Currently, the Long-billed Cur- 1.3 lbs., with a wingspan of nearly periods, with a few [non-breeding] lew is considered occasional/irregu- three-feet, this Mallard-sized species found in summer, and moderate lar year round along the southeast- is North America’s largest shore- numbers in midwinter. ern Louisiana coast, and uncommon bird. In flight, its broad wings beat Reporting its Cajun French to common depending on season, shallowly but strongly; the upper name as corbigeau, Lowery summa- on the southwestern coast. As re- surfaces showing broad rufous-brown rizes the feeling that all Louisiana cently as 1974, only one inland Lou- patches on the secondaries and birders who have been fortunate isiana record existed (October 1953 inner primaries, and the undersides enough to see “and hear”this wary, at Wallace Lake near Shreveport) for a beautiful cinnamon-buff color. magnificent bird at relatively close this species. Today, the Shreveport This species traditionally nests range: “. . . there are few natural area has added only a couple of addi- in the short-grass prairies of south- sounds more thrilling than this tional records; one in early Septem- western Canada and the western bird’s clear, mellow whistle, a cur-lee, ber and another in late December. U.S. Great Plains and Great Basin cur-lee. Indeed, I pity the man who Undoubtedly arising from increased regions. Northwestern shorebird has never in his lifetime stood alone observer coverage within the south- expert Dennis Paulson states that on an ocean shore, far from the western and south-central Louisiana it is fortunate that the Long-billed usual discordant sounds of our civili- rice country, a smattering of spring, Curlew has adapted to short grain zation, and watched curlew probing fall, and winter records presently fields and pastures as well. Relative- their bills into the sand and giving exist for this species. ly few Long-billed Curlews winter along the Pacific and Gulf coasts of the United States and Mexico, with the bulk of the population spending winters in the arid grasslands of the interior southwestern United States and Mexico. In 1938 (The Bird Life of Louisi- ana) ornithologist Harry C. Ober- holser states that the Long-billed Curlew was formerly “very much more abundant, but now a rare winter resident; casual [occasional] in summer.” Once legislation had been passed to protect most shorebird species, Long-billed Curlew numbers began to rise. By 1955, George Low-

ery, Jr. called it “not uncommon” Greg Lavaty

57 The Godwits Limosa haemastica and Limosa fedoa

Hudsonian Godwit Greg Lavaty Godwits are relatively large-bod- in the 19th century and on through bird species was enacted, George ied shorebirds possessing long, the middle of the 20th century, the Lowery, Jr. upgraded the Hudsonian slightly-upturned bills. One of the Hudsonian Godwit was considered Godwit’s Louisiana status from very less common North American shore- the rarest of our regularly-occurring rare to uncommon, mentioning that bird species, the Hudsonian Godwit migrant shorebirds. As with numer- “Enough records have accumulated (Limosa haemastica) nests in but a ous other shorebirds, market hunt- to make me feel confident that the few scattered populations within the ing had taken its toll on this species. species can be located every spring Arctic tundra in coastal Alaska, the In 1938, Harry Oberholser reported by a careful search in the rice fields coast of the Northwest Territories, only three definite Louisiana records of southwestern Louisiana,” yet even and along southern shores of Hud- for the Hudsonian Godwit. By 1955, by then, only five fall records had son Bay in Canada. Its wintering only two additional observations been turned in. grounds are restricted to the coastal had been reported, including one Today, we have come to under- flats and pampas marshes of south- inland record from Shreveport in stand that the Hudsonian Godwit’s ern South America. May of 1951. migration path through the Gulf From the beginning of ornitho- By 1974, over 50 years after Coast runs more through eastern logical record-keeping in Louisiana federal protection for most shore- Texas than in Louisiana. Thus, along

58 Louisiana’s southeastern coast, only Calcasieu Parish in November, 1885 is considered an uncommon winter several records exist during this and December, 1888. resident, and fairly common spring species’ spring migration period in By the mid-20th century, Lowery and fall migrant along the southeast- April and May, and again during reported more numerous Marbled ern Louisiana coast. On our south- fall migration in September and Godwit records (all coastal) during western coast it is considered uncom- October. On the other hand, being both spring and fall migration peri- mon to fairly common nearly year contiguous with the coast of south- ods; and by 1974 added that it had round, being recorded in every week eastern Texas, records are far more by then been recorded on the coast except for the last week of June. numerous along Louisiana’s south- in every month of the year, and also Inland, it is uncommonly recorded western coast. There, it is considered mentioning two inland records – in spring and fall migration within an uncommon but regular spring both from the LSU campus in Baton the rice belt of southwestern/central migrant, particularly between mid- Rouge. Louisiana, with rare fall records up April and mid-May. Presently the Marbled Godwit into northwestern Louisiana. Interestingly – just as Lowery had predicted – in the rice country just a bit inland from Louisiana’s southwestern coast, this species’ current spring status is put at uncommon-to-fairly-common primarily from mid-April through mid-May, along with a number of late spring and early to mid-summer records as well. As with the Hudsonian Godwit, the Marbled Godwit’s (Limosa fedoa) North American breeding range is spotty, limited to the moister grasslands of the northern Great Plains and in a few tundra habitats in southwestern Alaska and at the southern end of James Bay in the Canadian provinces of Ontario and Quebec. Nineteenth century market hunting nearly extirpated this largest of all godwit species as well, but it recovered more quickly than did the Hudsonian Godwit, and is presently substantially more populous, wintering primarily along the Pacific, Atlantic, and Gulf coasts of the U.S. and Mexico. Up through the early 20th century, Oberholser reported the Marbled Godwit as a very rare winter resident in southern Louisiana, “reported by several authors, but with only two definite records,” both from Sabine Marbled Godwit

Station in southwestern Louisiana’s Greg Lavaty

59 Greg Lavaty

60 Ruddy Turnstone Arenaria interpres

Boldly patterned in both breed- it forages, often running through any Louisiana beach year round. ing and non-breeding plumages, foraging flocks of other shorebirds, George Lowery, Jr. suspected that this robin-sized shorebird is easily animatedly flipping all manner of the main spring migration route for identified as it mingles with Sand- debris into the air in its wake. those Ruddy Turnstones overwinter- erlings and other shorebirds along Up through the mid-20th cen- ing around the Gulf of Mexico pro- its favored beach habitats. Nick- tury this shorebird was actually ceeded eastward across the northern named the “calico back,” the Ruddy included within the plover family, Gulf Coast, through peninsular Flor- Turnstone is a truly cosmopolitan due undoubtedly to its plover-like ida, and then up the Atlantic Coast species. It breeds in Arctic tundra appearance, rapidity of movement, en route to the Canadian Arctic. habitats in both eastern and western and foraging habits. Today, it is more As late as 1974 (Louisiana Birds, hemispheres. Likewise, it winters properly placed in the sandpiper 3rd ed.), only three inland Louisiana worldwide on temperate and tropical family (Scolopacidae). records existed for this beach-loving coasts. The Ruddy Turnstone has always species – two from Baton Rouge and Its short bill is stout and pointed, been a fairly common permanent one from Shreveport. More recently, adapted for prying mollusks from resident throughout Louisiana’s however, increased observer coverage rocks and reefs. It also uses its strong entire coastline and barrier island has resulted in a substantial number bill to turn over (thus its common beaches. It is obviously far more of spring and fall migration records name) beach debris in search of common during migration periods from the rice belt in southwestern/ other prey items. Though its legs are than in either summer or winter, yet central Louisiana, and up into the short and thick, it moves quickly as at least a few can be found on almost northwestern portion of the state. Greg Lavaty

61 Red Knot Calidris canutus

Once known as the “American breeding plumage the Red Knot only two record locations west of the Knot” or simply “Knot,” this husky is not difficult to pick out from Mermentau River along the south- Killdeer-sized sandpiper is yet another amongst the other “beach pipers;” western coast, and no definite winter globally cosmopolitan species, breed- but in its drab gray non-breeding records at all from Louisiana. ing in both Old World and New plumage, identification problems By 1955 Lowery reported the World Arctic tundra habitats, and may arise. At such times, the combi- “Knot” as “never common, but wintering along tropical and sub-trop- nation of the Red Knot’s relatively encountered regularly at Grand Isle ical coasts stretching from the Ameri- large body size and relatively short, during migration periods, with a few cas to western Europe and Africa and straight bill may assist in differen- remaining in cold months.” Some all the way south into Australia. tiating it from other beach-loving 20 years later he considered it to be Although some references list shorebirds. “regular at Grand Isle and Cameron mud flats as the preferred substrate In 1938 Oberholser character- during migration periods,” and had for the Red Knot, most Louisiana ized the “American Knot” as a rare accumulated records for all winter observations are from open, sandy migrant and occasional summer months along the coast, as well as beaches – often in the company of visitor at many of the beaches and three inland records (Baton Rouge, Sanderlings and Ruddy Turnstones. barrier islands of coastal Louisiana. Natchitoches, and Shreveport). In its relatively bright “burnt-salmon” At that time, however, he mentioned Presently, the Louisiana status for Red Knot remains essentially the same as in Lowery’s day. Along the southeastern coast and barrier islands it is considered uncommon in spring and fall migration, rare in summer and winter. Along the southwestern coast it is uncommon to rare from late March through early June and from mid-July through mid-November. Inland sightings remain quite rare and confined to migration periods. The Rufa subspecies of Red Knot is now listed as “threatened” under the Endangered Species Act, presumably the same subspecies that migrates through Louisiana. Biolo- gists are now ramping up efforts to identify Louisiana’s Red Knots to subspecies and more fully define the ecological needs of these birds. Greg Lavaty

62 Richard DeMay

63 Richard DeMay

64 Sanderling Calidris alba

By far the most commonly-observed beach shorebird, the Sanderling is seldom encountered elsewhere. Slightly smaller than a Red-winged Blackbird, this species is relatively short-legged and short- billed compared to most other sandpipers. When foraging on open beaches, the Sanderling moves speedily and mechanically, dashing into freshly-flooded sand upon the departure of each wave, and retreating just as quickly with the arrival of the next. Richard DeMay Sanderlings nest in high-Arctic (spring) and Atlantic (fall) coasts of blackish back feathers etched with habitats worldwide, and spend their North America during its annual rufous or white, all set off sharply by winters along most all temperate and [migration] cycle.” a pure-white belly and jet black legs. tropical coasts. In testimony to the In Louisiana winters, this small, Lucky is the observer who chances expansiveness of the Sanderling’s pale bird is almost always observed to encounter a Sanderling in this migrations, shorebird expert Dennis within the surf zone of our beaches, plumage phase. Paulson wrote, “Thus far this is the or else resting on tidal flats behind. Along the southeastern Louisiana only shorebird species in which the Come spring, its pale plumage coast the Sanderling is common in same color-banded individual has transforms to bright rust-colored every month except June and July, been observed on both the Pacific head and breast, complimented by when non-breeding/“summering” birds are decidedly uncommon but still regularly encountered. Along our southwestern coast it is considered fairly common to common nearly year round, being recorded in every week with the exception of the last week of June. Migrating Sand- erling encounters are rare anywhere in inland Louisiana, but they are occasionally observed in muddy rice fields in the southwestern region in spring or fall. Only four migratory Sanderling records exist for northwestern Louisiana; none for the northeast. Greg Lavaty

65 The “Peeps”

“Peep” is a nickname used by through good optical equipment will Semipalmated Sandpiper (Calidris birders for any one of five small-bod- solve most identification challenges pusilla) possesses the shortest and ied, short-billed, short-legged, posed by these birds. Fortunately, all most-blunt bill of the peeps. Even similar-looking North American five of these species regularly occur so, there is substantial overlap of sandpipers: Semipalmated Sandpip- in Louisiana; two of which (Western bill length between this species and er, Western Sandpiper, Least Sand- and Least sandpipers) are present its closest look-alike, the Western piper, White-rumped Sandpiper, and here in good numbers for at least 10 Sandpiper. In foraging behavior Baird’s Sandpiper. The name “peep” months out of each year. Consistent Semipalmateds tend to move more is derived from the chick-like or study of these two species in all of quickly, picking prey off of the mud duckling-like flight calls produced by their various plumage phases goes or sand surface, whereas Westerns some of the species in this group. a long way toward understanding tend to move slowly, methodically While it is true that these five the critical field marks necessary to probing – often in belly-deep water. species bear a superficial resem- distinguish all five species. Also, the flight vocalization of the blance to one another, patient and With a House Sparrow-sized Semipalmated is a decidedly “un- careful study at short distances body (but much longer wings), the peep-like” “chut” or “chert!” versus

Semipalmated Sandpiper Greg Lavaty

66 White-rumped Sandpiper Greg Lavaty

67 the “tcheet!” of the Western. 1970s that this rather common locally abundant winter resident” Semipalmated Sandpipers breed error was revealed. In his detailed in Louisiana. Interestingly, though, throughout the North American continent-wide work (1975; Semi- he furnished no winter specimen Arctic region from the North Slope palmated Sandpiper: identification, records. Likewise, Lowery (Louisiana of Alaska eastward through Prince migrations, summer and winter Birds 1955 and 1974) mentioned Edward Island off the northern ranges. American Birds 29: 799-806) that Semipalmated Sandpiper’s Atlantic coast. In migration, they with the Semipalmated Sandpiper, “midwinter numbers [are] variable,” travel mostly through the eastern ornithologist Allan Phillips pointed even while conceding that win- United States en route to their win- out that not only did bill lengths ter-plumaged Semipalmateds and tering grounds in the Caribbean and differ between male (shorter) and Westerns were difficult to distin- northern South America. During female (longer) birds, but that overall guish in the field. Today, we under- late-fall migrations, a significant bill length within the species in- stand that Semipalmated Sandpipers proportion of Semipalmateds and creased from west to east across its are simply not to be found anywhere Westerns possess very nearly identi- North American breeding grounds. in the United States, except during cal bill lengths. This, combined with As a result Phillips found that the migration. their nearly identical non-breeding bill lengths of many eastern female Presently, the Semipalmated plumage patterns, makes separating Semipalmateds actually exceeded the Sandpiper is a fairly common spring those with similar bill lengths a bill lengths of many male Western migrant and uncommon fall migrant hazardous exercise. For many years, Sandpipers! along Louisiana’s southeastern coast- shorter-billed Westerns were routine- Thus, it is not surprising that al zone. Within the southwestern ly being misidentified as Semipal- nearly 40 years prior to this discov- coastal zone it is considered fairly mateds during the winter months ery, Oberholser (The Bird Life of common in both spring and fall here in the United States. Louisiana 1938) called the Semi- migration periods. In northwestern In fact it was not until the mid- palmated Sandpiper a “common to Louisiana it is a fairly common mi-

Western Sandpiper Greg Lavaty

68 grant from May through early-June and from July through mid-October. In northeastern Louisiana, Semi- palmated Sandpiper records vary from rare to common during late spring and early summer, and mostly uncommon from August through late October. At 6.5-inches in length, the Western Sandpiper (Calidris mauri) averages a mere quarter-inch longer than the Semipalmated; but this minuscule size difference is per- ceptible when the two species are viewed side-by-side. As previously Least Sandpiper mentioned, most Westerns are longer-billed as well, with the bills Greg Lavaty of females most often possessing er is considered abundant during neck, and breast of the Least Sand- slightly drooped tips. Importantly, spring and fall migration, common piper stand out as “dirty” compared Westerns retain rust-colored scapular in winter, and rare in summer with- with that of the Semipalmated and feathers in most plumages except in in the coastal zone of southeastern especially that of the Western. Most adult winter (non-breeding) plum- Louisiana. Within the southwestern importantly, the leg color of the age. Compared to all other peeps, coastal zone it is considered fairly Least Sandpiper is a dull-yellow in non-breeding Westerns possess the common to common year round all plumages whereas that of the “cleanest” less extensively-marked except for the month of June. North Semipalm and Western is jet-black faces. Louisiana records show it to be a in all plumages. Thus, given a good Unlike Semipalms, Western common fall migrant (late-July – look at the legs, the Least Sandpiper Sandpipers nest in a very limited September), and uncommon to rare can be easily differentiated from the area of low tundra along the coastal in spring (mid-April – early-May). In other two in any season. plain of western Alaska and north- northeastern Louisiana it has been In foraging, the Least Sandpiper eastern Siberia. The winter range recorded in December on a number is most often found on mud sub- of the Western is quite large; and of occasions. strates, either bare or sparsely-vege- unlike the Semipalmated Sandpiper, Averaging 6” in body length, the tated, and on occasion even shal- includes most of the coastal United Least Sandpiper (Calidris minutilla) lowly-flooded, where it gleans and States and Mexico in addition to is not only the smallest peep, but probes for prey. The high-pitched, northern South America. also the smallest shorebird species somewhat musical “preep!” flight In Louisiana, Oberholser (1938) in the world. In breeding plumage, call of the Least Sandpiper is the considered the Western Sandpiper the Least Sandpiper closely approx- most “peep-like” of the group. “a rare winter resident,” undoubt- imates that of the Semipalmated The Least Sandpiper nests in edly mistaking most winter (male) Sandpiper; and in winter plumage, boreal forest habitats throughout all Westerns for Semipalms. By the mid- it can superficially resemble both of Alaska and Canada, and winters 20th century, Lowery characterized the Semipalmated and Western along and well-inland of the Pacific, the Western Sandpiper more proper- sandpipers. In general, however, southern Atlantic, and Gulf coasts ly as “abundant on the coast August the bill of the Least Sandpiper is of the United States and Mexico through late-May” and “occurs in somewhat finer in structure, and southward into northern South small [non-breeding] numbers even tapering to a more pointed tip than America. th in June and July.” that of the others. In all plumages, Back in the early 20 century, Currently, the Western Sandpip- the more densely-streaked face, Oberholser characterized the Least

69 status as a fairly-common but local transient, regularly recorded throughout our coastal zone March-June, and again in August in fall migration. Back then, no records existed for this species in the northern half of the state. Later in the 20th century, Lowery considered its status to be similar to that of Oberholser’s but “not common until late-May after most other transient shorebirds have moved north,” routinely noting “throngs in the rice belt” of inland southwestern Louisiana, and appearing “regularly at the Natchitoches Fish Hatchery and other places” in northern Louisiana. Contrary to Oberholser, Lowery gave only one fall migration record (August 13, 1968 at New Orleans) from Louisiana. Least Sandpiper Today, the White-rumped Sand- piper is considered a fairly common Greg Lavaty spring (May through early-June) mi- Sandpiper as a “common permanent ous three in all its plumages, save grant within Louisiana’s southeast- resident; less numerous in summer,” for its longer wings which, unlike ern coastal zone, with isolated fall and “fairly-common in central and the other three, extend noticeably migration records from July through northern Louisiana in migration.” beyond its tail when they are folded, early-September. Within the south- Two decades later, as more records resulting in an overall slimmer look, western Louisiana coastal zone it is accumulated, George Lowery, Jr. with a more attenuated posterior. considered a rare (April) to common called it “the commonest and most The “clinching” field mark for this (May through mid-June) spring mi- widespread” of all the peep species species, however, is its unmarked grant, and uncommon fall migrant in Louisiana. Throughout our entire pure-white rump – easily seen when (latter half of September). In north- coastal zone, its current Louisiana the bird takes flight. western Louisiana it is considered status is similar to that of Lowery’s The White-rumped Sandpip- an uncommon migrant between day: fairly common from early-July er breeds in the Arctic tundra of late-April and June, with isolated fall through early-June; rare only from north-central Canada, and winters migration records from mid-July and mid-June through first week of July; far south in southern South Amer- August. In northeastern Louisiana, and uncommon to fairly common ica. As with the American Golden records exist for spring migration from early-July through early-May in Plover and several other shorebird only. northern Louisiana. Only one June species, most White-rumpeds Like the White-rumped Sand- record from the northwestern quad- migrate southward over the western piper, Baird’s Sandpiper (Calidris rant of the state is presently on file. Atlantic Ocean in fall, but back bairdii) is notably larger-bodied Averaging 7.5-inches in length, through the middle of the North and longer-winged than the other the White-rumped Sandpiper American continent in spring. (Semipalmated, Western, and Least) (Calidris fuscicollis) is notably larger Also known as the “Bonaparte peeps; with the folded wings on than the three previously-discussed Sandpiper” back in the early 20th standing individuals extending even peeps. Otherwise, it can appear century, Oberholser characterized the further past the tail than in the distressingly similar to the previ- White-rumped Sandpiper’s Louisiana White-rumped, resulting in a similar-

70 ly sleek and attenuated appearance. North American continent. Migrat- our west.” By 1974 (Louisiana Birds Spring-migrating Baird’s Sandpipers ing juvenile Baird’s are known to 3rd ed.), he had upgraded its spring possess a characteristic buff-colored utilize both the U.S. Atlantic and status from “rare” to uncommon, cast to their breeding plumage, par- Pacific Coasts as well. Generally, and mentioned a number of north- ticularly so on the neck and breast, Baird’s Sandpipers prefer drier habi- western Louisiana records as well. allowing them to be distinguished tats than the other peeps, where they Presently, Baird’s Sandpiper is from other peep species with relative forage much in the style of plovers, considered rare (last week of March) ease during that season. George with rapid, short forays, abrupt to fairly common (April through Lowery, Jr. (Louisiana Birds 1955) stops, and quick picking actions mid-May) spring migrant, and un- gave the flight call of Baird’s as an with their bills. common (late-July through October) unmusical “kreep-kreep.” Through 1938, only one pub- fall migrant within Louisiana’s Baird’s is an Arctic tundra breed- lished record of Baird’s Sandpiper southwestern coastal zone; rare in er from Alaska eastward through (Cameron Parish, April 1926) both spring and fall along our south- north-central Canada. Like the existed for all of Louisiana. By 1955 eastern coastal zone. In northwestern White-rumped Sandpiper, Baird’s Lowery had compiled numerous Louisiana it is characterized as un- Sandpiper winters in far-southern records for it, calling it a “rare common in both spring (mid-March South America; but with Baird’s, spring and uncommon fall transient through late-May) and fall (late-July both fall and spring migratory routes (March-May and September-Novem- through late-October) migration peri- pass through a relatively narrow ber)” in our state, mentioning the ods. No records for this species exist band through the center of the bulk of migration as occurring “to from northeastern Louisiana.

Baird’s Sandpiper Greg Lavaty

71 Pectoral Sandpiper Calidris melanotos

About the size of a Red-winged which they use in courtship displays. legislation, the Pectoral Sandpiper Blackbird, but with a more robust Pectoral Sandpipers nest in was heavily hunted by both sports- shape, the Pectoral Sandpiper resem- wet-tundra habitat from central men and market-hunters, and thus bles a double-sized Least Sandpiper Siberia all the way across Canada one of the better-known shorebirds. in most respects, with its dense- eastward through Hudson Bay. In The Bird Life of Louisiana ly-streaked neck and breast very They winter far into southern South (1938), Oberholser gave “Grass abruptly terminating above a pure America, with scattered reports from Bird,” “Jack Snipe,” and “Creaker,” white belly, resulting in a dramatic New Zealand and Australia as well. as hunter-generated nicknames for line of demarcation between these Their North American migration this species, and considered it to two areas that quickly catches the route is elliptical in shape, hug- be a still-common spring and fall eye of any observer. In body size, the ging the Atlantic coast in fall, and transient through Louisiana. Only Pectoral Sandpiper exhibits a greater then up through the middle of the five years later, however, E. A. McIl- degree of sexual dimorphism (males continent in spring. As with Baird’s henny (Auk Vol. 60) lamented that far larger than females) than in any Sandpiper, juvenile Pectorals regular- the “churook” (the Cajun French other shorebird. This is primarily ly stray to both Atlantic and Pacific name for this species) had “almost due to the fact that males possess Coasts during migration. disappeared” from southern Loui- inflatable sacs above their breasts, Prior to the passage of protective siana, commenting that it was once “probably the most plentiful of all sandpipers” here. A dozen years after McIlhenny’s report, George Lowery, Jr. (Louisi- ana Birds 1955) maintained that the Pectoral Sandpiper was at “certain seasons one of our commonest sandpipers; and almost as numerous inland as on the coast,” also mentioning its predilection for wet grassy habitats, “though not entirely averse to muddy” situations. By the 3rd edition of Louisiana Birds (1974) Lowery stated that Louisiana records for the Pectoral Sandpiper existed for every month of the year except January and June. Today, the Pectoral Sandpip- er is considered a fairly common migrant for six months out of each year (March-May; August-October)

Greg Lavaty throughout most all of Louisiana.

72 Greg Lavaty

73 Greg Lavaty

74 Dunlin Calidris alpina

Slightly smaller than a Red- winged Blackbird, the Dunlin was once known as the “Red-backed Sandpiper” due to the bright-rufous upperparts of its breeding plumage. This mark, combined with an exten- sive, jet-black belly patch and medi- um-long gently-decurved bill make this species easy to recognize during spring migration. On the other hand, non-breeding plumage birds are about as nondescript as a shorebird can get, featuring unmarked dull- brown upperparts and breast, and dingy-white bellies. At such times, Richard DeMay it’s important to note the bill shape the Dunlin has always been consid- Rouge and Natchitoches, and only and length, along with the bird’s ered a common to locally abundant one spring record from Shreveport. size relative to other known species winter species throughout the coast- Today, within the southeastern (yellowlegs, dowitchers, peeps) with al zone of Louisiana. Oberholser coastal zone of Louisiana, the Dun- which it often associates. (1938) called it “casual in summer;” lin is considered a common winter The Dunlin breeds on Arctic but Lowery (1955) reported it as ab- species and an abundant spring and tundra habitat worldwide and win- sent from our state between May and fall migrant. Along the southwestern ters along all northern hemisphere early December. This disparity in coast and inland through the rice coasts, including the Pacific, Atlantic, summer status seems strange, given country it is considered uncommon and Gulf coasts of the United States the Dunlin’s unmistakable summer to common from the second week and Mexico. plumage pattern. Perhaps its summer of September through May. Histori- In Louisiana, Dunlins are most status actually changed within the cally, northern Louisiana records for attracted to mud flats in rice fields, 17 year hiatus between the reports of Dunlin were generally lacking, with marshes, and along the coast itself; these two ornithologists. only one report filed from Shreve- methodically picking and probing Of similar intrigue is Lowery’s port in May of 1953. Today, north- their way over the mud, often into 1955 (Louisiana Birds, 1st ed.) com- western Louisiana records indicate it belly-deep water. As with the Stilt ment that this species was “common to be an uncommon spring (April- Sandpiper and Long-billed Dow- on the coast but rare inland,” as the May) and fall (August-October) itcher, the Dunlin’s shallow water Dunlin is quite common well-inland migrant. In northeastern Louisiana, probing often becomes so rapid that throughout the rice country today. records exist only from the rice fields the bird appears to be “stitching” like By the third edition of Louisiana of Richland Parish, where it is con- the needle of a sewing machine. Birds (1974) Lowery had noted but a sidered an uncommon winter bird From the earliest days of re- handful of fall/early winter records (mid-October through mid-January). cord-keeping through the present, from inland locations such as Baton

75 Stilt Sandpiper Calidris himantopus

With its long yellow-green legs and Louisiana. and long slightly-decurved bill, this In The Bird Life of Louisiana Red-winged Blackbird-sized species (1938), Oberholser considered the is the epitome of a “generic” sand- Stilt Sandpiper to be a rare spring piper. In spring breeding plumage and fall transient in southern its pale body is heavily streaked and Louisiana, mentioning only five barred with blackish markings, set definite records, including one off beautifully by a reddish cap and by John James Audubon on April cheek, divided by a bright white “eye- 4, 1837 of “30 individuals on the brow.” In non-breeding plumage, the southern shores of Barataria Island.” Stilt Sandpiper is quite nondescript By the mid-20th century Lowery – similar to that of a non-breeding had upgraded its Louisiana status to Dunlin. In such plumages, and a “not uncommon” spring and fall especially when the long legs of the Greg Lavaty transient statewide, mentioning but Stilt Sandpiper are hidden underwa- The Stilt Sandpiper nests one winter record. ter, it can look distressingly similar throughout North America’s Arctic Presently, the Stilt Sandpiper to the shorter-legged Dunlin, with tundra region. It winters from the is a fairly common spring and fall only fine differences in bill shape Caribbean southward through most migrant and a rare winter resident (relatively straight but drooping at of South America; less commonly so through Louisiana’s coastal zone; the tip on Stilt Sandpiper versus gen- along the northern rim of the Gulf completely absent only for a short tly-decurved throughout on Dunlin) of Mexico, including the coastal period in mid-summer. North separating the two. zones of southern Texas, Florida, Louisiana records show it to be an uncommon transient, with spring records lacking from the northeastern quadrant. This mid-sized terrestrial sandpiper features a short bill, medi- um-length yellow legs, and plain buff face, neck, and underparts in all its seasonal plumages. Most observers agree that one of the most telling identification clues involve the Buff-breasted’s black eyes standing out prominently against its unmarked pale-buff face. In foraging, the Buff-breasted appears erect and plover-like, but works at a slower more sandpiper-like pace. Greg Lavaty

76 Greg Lavaty

77 Greg Lavaty

78 Buff-breasted Sandpiper Tryngites subruficollis

The Buff-breasted Sandpiper breeds in dry Arctic tundra habitats along the northeastern coast of Alaska and northern Canada, and winters far south in the pampas of Argentina. It is the only North American shorebird to form leks during the breeding season, with up to 20 males at a time gathering to display. Fortunately for Louisiana birders, this species’ primary spring and fall migratory pathway runs straight through the middle of the United States, which includes most of our state. In migration through Louisi- ana, the Buff-breasted can turn up at almost any short-grass or dry bare- soil situation statewide. For this reason it is often missed by shorebirders

who are focusing more on wet fields Greg Lavaty where most other sandpipers occur. That said, one of the best places a rare spring and fall transient and years ago, [it] was considered a very to find Buff-breasteds is in south- casual winter resident (the latter rare transient…now that its habitat western Louisiana’s rice belt during probably based on a single record preferences are better understood, spring when newly-germinated rice from Cameron Parish on February however, it is found regularly in both is in the process of being flooded. 27, 1919) throughout Louisiana’s small and large flocks.” In such situations, other sandpipers coastal zone, with no records from Today, the Buff-breasted Sandpip- flock into the newly-flooded areas, the central and northern parts of er is considered a rare to uncommon picking off distressed terrestrial in- the state. Referring to this species as spring and fall transient within Lou- sects and other invertebrates flushed the “Robin Snipe” or “Vent Rouge” isiana’s southeastern coastal zone; up in the inundation. Meanwhile, (“red belly” in Cajun French), E. A. uncommon to fairly common within lines of Buff-breasteds can be found McIlhenny declared it “once com- the southwestern quadrant. In patrolling the dry-wet margins of the mon; now completely absent” from northern Louisiana it is considered flood, gradually retreating landward southern Louisiana as of 1943. a rare to uncommon fall migrant, as the water advances. Twelve years later, in his first edi- with only three total spring reports Through the early part of the tion of Louisiana Birds, George Low- on record from the northwestern 20th century, Oberholser reported ery, Jr. clarified the Buff-breasted’s quadrant. the Buff-breasted Sandpiper to be state status, writing, “...until a few

79 The Dowitchers Limnodromus scolopaceus & Limnodromus griseus

Long-billed, short-legged, and cies of the Short-billed Dowitcher. Canada, and the Canadian Mari- robust – even “dumpy” – in appear- The Long-billed Dowitcher breeds times of Quebec and Newfoundland, ance, these Killdeer-sized sandpipers in tundra habitats in a very limited respectively. All populations winter carry perhaps the most poorly-con- area along the northern coasts of in the salt-marshes and marine sidered common names, for there Alaska and the adjacent Northwest estuaries along all U.S., Caribbean, is simply too much overlap in bill Territories of Canada. Conversely, it and Mexican coasts, down through length between the Long-billed winters over a large geographical area northern South America. Dowitcher (Limnodromus scolopaceus) which includes the entire Pacific, In all seasons, these two dow- and the Short-billed Dowitcher Atlantic, and Gulf coastal zones of itchers possess nearly identical body (Limnodromus griseus) to safely sepa- North America. structure and plumage patterns. rate the two based on this character. The Short-billed Dowitcher In breeding plumages, very subtle Until nearly the middle of the breeds in wet boreal forest openings, differences can sometimes be distin- 20th century the Long-billed Dow- and in three distinct populations in- guished at close range. Chief among itcher was considered a mere subspe- cluding the Yukon of Alaska, central these involves the rufous-orange

Long-billed Dowitcher Greg Lavaty

80 Short-billed Dowitcher Greg Lavaty belly of the Long-billed versus the the coast along estuarine sandbars, Snipe.” In south Louisiana they were white belly of the Short-billed – with salt-marshes, and mangrove swamp known by Cajun French hunters as the caveat that the “prairie” race of openings; whereas Long-billeds “Dormeur” or “sleepy one,” due per- the latter species does not possess range a bit farther inland into the haps to their habit of sleeping – bills any white on the belly. In any of the freshwater marshes and rice fields of tucked duck-style beneath wings – in other plumages, however, all bets are the interior. Again, though, during large groups for long hours each day. off, as juveniles and wintering birds migration periods all bets are off, Regardless of historical hunting of both species generally possess as both species can be found in just pressure, both dowitcher species much white on their bellies. During about any open wetland habitat – have always been considered com- fall migration, some shorebird ex- fresh, brackish, or salt. mon in fall, winter, and spring perts can separate juvenile dowitch- Ultimately, the surest and throughout most of Louisiana’s ers based on the width/amount of safest way to differentiate these two coastal zone. During the summer pale barring that alternates with dark dowitchers is by their voices. Long- months some non-breeding Short- barring on the tertial wing feathers billeds give a harsher “keek!” (often billed Dowitchers tend to linger on and outer tail feathers (thinner/less sounding like, “keekeekeekee!” when the coast, whereas the Long-billed white on the Long-billed versus wid- an entire flock takes flight) whereas Dowitcher is absent from late May er/more white on the Short-billed) Short-billeds utter a much softer, through mid-July. In northern Lou- of the two. mellower “tututu” (often sounding isiana, the Long-billed Dowitcher Within the wintering grounds of more like, “doodoodoo”). is an uncommon winter resident; these two species, the Short-billed Prior to the passage of the more common during migration exhibits a decided preference for Migratory Bird Treaty Act in 1918, periods. The Short-billed Dowitcher coastal marine habitats whereas Dowitchers were heavily hunted by is considered a rare migrant in the the Long-billed is most often found sportsmen and market hunters; and northwestern quadrant; unrecorded in freshwater wetlands. Indeed, in given a variety of colloquial names in the northeast. Louisiana, winter Short-billeds are including “Robin Snipe,” “Quail almost always found directly on Snipe,” “German Snipe,” and “Gray

81 Wilson’s Snipe Gallinago delicata

Similar to the dowitchers in size as well as all of Mexico and Central worms, leeches, grubs, and seeds. and structure, Wilson’s Snipe is America down into northern South In muddier more sparsely-vegetated perhaps the best-known shorebird America. fields they can easily go unnoticed, in North America. Still known Due to the expansiveness of its until they are flushed up into the as the Common Snipe by some, range and its large, stable population, air, demonstrating their trademark market hunters also gave this bird Wilson’s Snipe is one of only two towering, zig-zagging flight pattern, nicknames such as “Jack Snipe,” and shorebird species that is still legally and uttering their harsh, grating “English Snipe.” hunted in the United States. “Kesh” flight call – from which the Wilson’s Snipe breeds in the With its beautifully-cryptic plum- Cajun French nickname, “cosh-cosh” tundra throughout all of Alaska and age, the Wilson’s Snipe presents a is derived. Canada south of the Arctic Circle, fine visage, particularly when sitting In Louisiana, Wilson’s Snipe down into the marshes of the Great against bright-green short-grass fields, is a common (north) to abundant Basin, northern Great Plains, Great where the bold, alternating pale/dark (south) winter resident, from late Lakes, and northeastern portions longitudinal striping on its head, fall through early spring; more spo- of the United States. Its wintering face, and back really stand out. radically encountered at other times. range is even larger, encompassing Generally, Wilson’s Snipe forage July is the only month in which this nearly all of the continental United in small, well-spaced flocks called species has not been recorded in our States south of its breeding range, “wisps,” probing deeply for earth- state. Greg Lavaty

82 Greg Lavaty

83 Greg Lavaty

84 Wilson’s Phalarope Phalaropus tricolor

Phalaropes are unique among pampas marshlands of Argentina, By the mid-20th century, George the shorebirds in that they pos- utilizing wet fields, lakes, and coastal Lowery, Jr. considered it “moderately sess fleshy-lobed toes, more sim- lagoons all along the way. Like the common” from late-April through ilar to that of coots. Like coots, other phalarope species, Wilson’s early-May, with few August-Sep- they commonly swim with jerky, Phalarope can be often observed tember records. By 1974, and the head-bobbing motions. Additionally, spinning in tight circles as it swims 3rd edition of his Louisiana Birds, phalaropes are lightweight but dense- after prey in deep waters. The spin- Lowery had extended several more ly-plumaged birds, allowing them to ning motion creates an upwelling in weeks of both spring and fall re- float high up on the water’s surface the water column, pulling small prey cords. He also mentioned the state’s as they hunt down tiny aquatic prey, up toward the surface. first inland record of a bird observed which they strain from the water. Through the early part of the November 12-20, 1958 at the Natchi- Also unique is the fact that 20th century, Wilson’s Phalarope was toches Fish Hatchery, as well as the female phalaropes are the more not very well-known in Louisiana. first-ever inland winter record for the brightly-colored sex; and it is they Oberholser (1938) called it a casual United States, of two birds found on – not the males – who initiate and (irregular) spring transient within December 24, 1969, nine miles west exhibit courtship displays. Among our coastal zone. At that time there of Lafayette, LA. all other shorebird species, only were no definite Louisiana records Today, Wilson’s Phalarope is con- female Spotted Sandpipers share this in existence, but Oberholser men- sidered a rare (spring) to uncommon behavioral trait. tioned that fellow ornithologist Stan- (fall) migrant through the coastal Of the three phalarope species, ley C. Arthur had observed it “every zone and up through the north- Wilson’s Phalarope is by far the spring in Grand Chenier (Cameron western portion of Louisiana, with most terrestrial. Though it common- Parish)” during the years that he a smattering of additional winter ly swims, it also forages on the wet worked in the state. reports on file. ground of marshes and agricultural fields. Wilson’s Phalarope breeds in the marshes of western North America, where, as shorebird expert Dennis Paulson puts it, “Flashy females pursue drab males until they convince one to be a single parent, then abandon them to migrate south.” Indeed, soon after egg-laying, females leave the incubating and brooding chores to the males, departing almost immediately for points south. Wilson’s Phalarope migrates far south into the alkaline lakes of

the Andes mountain range and the Greg Lavaty

85 Louisiana’s Occasional and Accidental Shorebirds

Due to the far-flung migratory habits inherent to most shorebird species, it is not surprising that they are among the most commonly observed “vagrant” species in the bird world, turning up in all sorts of unexpected places, particularly during spring and fall migration periods; but also during the winter months as well. Vagrant birds are categorized as either “occasional” (also known as “casual”; species which appear irregularly at rates usually averaging less than once per year), or “accidental” (recorded on only a few total instances in any given region).

In Louisiana, vagrant shorebird species were not often recorded prior to the mid-20th century. By the 1950s, the number of observers skilled enough to identify shorebirds grew, resulting in increased geographical and seasonal coverage across the state on a more regular basis. Through the present, eight occasional and accidental species have been documented from Louisiana.

Mountain Plover Mountain Plover Greg Lavaty

86 ago in nearby Louisiana. Yet it was their respective breeding grounds. Lesser not until December 14, 2012 that The Purple Sandpiper’s usual Sand Plover Louisiana’s first Mountain Plover wintering grounds extend from Charadrius mongolus was documented from the agricultur- eastern Newfoundland southward al lands of southwestern Jeff Davis through coastal North Carolina, Parish during the Lacassine NWR – with vagrants fairly commonly Known until recently as the Thornwell Christmas Bird Count. recorded along the Great Lakes, the “Mongolian Plover,” the Lesser Sand reservoirs of the mid-South, and Plover is an Old World species, along the southern Atlantic and breeding in disjunct populations Black-tailed Gulf coasts of the United States. from the Himalayas northward Since 1974, the Purple Sandpiper through northeastern Siberia (occa- Godwit has been recorded on seven occasionally into Alaska), and winters Limosa limosa sions in rock “rip-rap” settings along on the beaches of eastern Africa and coastal Louisiana; five times in Australasia. This Old World species breeds Cameron Parish, once in Grand Isle Beyond Alaska, this species has from Iceland eastward across north- (Jefferson Parish), and once in Or- also been recorded on a number ern Europe and into central Asia, leans Parish. Most of these records of occasions along the California and winters throughout western are from mid-winter; but two (April coast, and once in southern Alberta, Europe, India, Africa, and Australia, 4, 1974 in Cameron and April 3-29, Canada. But the first record of this utilizing mostly inland freshwater 1994 at Grand Isle) were document- species in North America outside of habitats. During migrations, it has ed fairly late into the spring. Alaska came from Grand Isle (Jeffer- strayed to North America on a num- son Parish) on April 22, 1975 where ber of occasions, mostly along the it was photographed by a couple of Atlantic seaboard. Curlew visiting out-of-state birders. One of only a few North Ameri- On October 18, 1986, Louisi- can records for Black-tailed Godwit Sandpiper ana’s second Lesser Sand Plover was outside of the Atlantic coastal plain Calidris ferruginea recorded from a beach in Cameron occurred in a Vermilion Parish Parish. rice field, just a few miles north of Like our regularly-occurring Dun- Kaplan, LA, where a breeding-plum- lin, the Curlew Sandpiper is a mid- aged bird was viewed by numerous sized shorebird with a fairly long, Mountain birders May 11-13, 1994. gently decurved bill, but is slightly Plover longer-legged and longer-winged, and Charadrius montanus possesses a pure white rump versus a Purple white rump bisected by a dark stripe on the Dunlin. With deep rust-col- Slightly smaller than a Killdeer, Sandpiper ored body feathers above and below, the Mountain Plover is a North Calidris maritima breeding plumaged males are hard to American species that breeds in the mistake for any other species. arid short-grass prairies of the west- The closely-related Purple and The Curlew Sandpiper is an Old ern Great Plains and Great Basin, Rock sandpipers are “book-end” World species, breeding in the arctic and winters in similar habitats from species in North America, with the tundra of Siberia, and wintering in southern California southeastward latter breeding along the northwest- southern Asia, Africa, and Austral- through northern Mexico and the ern Alaskan coast and the former asia. Many records of vagrant birds southern Rio Grande Valley. on the arctic islands of northern exist throughout the United States With both breeding and winter- Canada. Adapted to rocky habitats, and Canada, nine of which come ing ranges that extend into Texas, both species are short-legged, short- from Louisiana; two from Cameron one would think that this species winged, and quite cold-hardy, winter- Parish, two from Acadia Parish, and should have been recorded long ing relatively short distances south of

87 five from Vermilion Parish. Most was a good year for vagrant Ruffs, spring, the migration procession is of our records have been of spring with seven records generated in that reversed. migrants, occurring primarily in year alone. Though the migration routes for early May. Only three involving fall North American Red-necked Phala- migrants (mid- August – mid-Sep- ropes are primarily over the eastern tember). Red-necked Pacific and western Atlantic Oceans, the U.S. Gulf of Mexico annually Phalarope receives a number of both fall and Ruff Phalaropus lobatus spring migrants. To date, around two Philomachus pugnax dozen records of this species have Of the three phalarope species, been documented for coastal Louisi- Slightly larger than a Killdeer, the better-known Wilson’s Phalarope ana. Over half of our records involve this plump, long-legged sandpiper is nests and winters in both coastal fall migrants. A December 22, 1985 an Old World species, breeding in and inland marsh settings through- record from Cameron is the most marshes and wet meadows throughout the Americas, whereas both Red- intriguing, coming at a season when out much of northern Europe and necked and Red Phalaropes migrate Red-necked Phalaropes are assumed Asia. Like many of our North Ameri- and winter at sea. In the Louisiana to have vacated the northern hemi- can sandpipers, the Ruff gathers into coastal zone, Wilson’s Phalarope sphere. large post-breeding flocks, spending is observed annually during both Nine of our Red-necked Phal- the winter months within a huge spring and fall migrations. Converse- arope records are from back-beach geographic region that includes ly, Red-necked and Red Phalaropes marsh ponds and other impound- much of Europe, southern Asia, are only rarely observed in our ments of coastal Cameron Parish; Africa, and Australia. coastal settings, and their wintering and six records originated from the As with the Curlew Sandpiper, population densities in the Gulf of pelagic waters of offshore Louisiana. vagrant Ruffs have been extensively Mexico itself are still poorly under- The remaining records came from documented across much of the stood. For these reasons, observing the coastal parishes of Plaquemine, United States and southern Cana- either of the latter two requires a Lafourche, Jefferson, and Terre- da. Here in Louisiana, the Ruff has bit of determination along with a bonne. To date, only three records been documented on at least 30 healthy dose of luck. have been generated from inland occasions. As with the Louisiana en- Also known as the Northern Louisiana (Pointe Coupee, Iberville, counters with the Curlew Sandpiper, Phalarope, the Red-necked Phala- and Vermilion parishes). most of our Ruff records come from rope breeds at low-arctic and sub-arc- the rice fields of southwestern Loui- tic zones around the world, includ- siana: fourteen from Vermilion Par- ing Alaska and northern Canada Red Phalarope ish, seven from Acadia Parish, two in North America. In late-summer Phalaropus fulicaria from Jeff Davis Parish and one from through early-fall, millions of birds Lafayette Parish. Other Louisiana regularly congregate off Maine in In non-breeding plumages, Red- coastal zone records originate from the Bay of Fundy. From there, the necked and Red phalaropes bear Cameron, Jefferson, and Orleans far-flung Red-necked Phalarope can a substantial degree of similarity, parishes. Perhaps the most exciting turn up in almost any lower-latitude both possessing mostly white bodies, record of all – Louisiana’s second – marine habitat, as well as in inland black “masks” and gray upperparts. came on August 12-13, 1978 from coastal ponds. Eventually it settles By comparison however, the Red the campus of the University of New in to winter at its favored south- Phalarope is a bit larger (8.5” long Orleans. ern-hemisphere locales, including vs. 7.75” for Red-necked), huskier, Thirteen Louisiana Ruff records the southeastern Pacific Ocean off and shorter/thicker-billed. For are of spring migrants, seven are of Peru, the southeastern Atlantic inexperienced observers, these fall migrants, and ten involve over- Ocean off west Africa, the Arabian comparative features may be of only wintering birds. Apparently, 1988 Sea and the South China Sea. In marginal identification assistance on

88 single-bird sightings of either species the Red Phalarope’s gray upperparts pale-gray. Here though, juvenile (fall) during non-breeding seasons. A are most often streaked with pale plumages present a conundrum, as good look at the upperparts of either and dark markings, whereas that of the backs of sub-adults of both spe- species might offer some help, as the Red-necked tends to be plain cies can be quite dark and streaky.

Ruff Greg Lavaty

89 American Avocet Greg Lavaty

90 SHOREBIRD CONSERVATION During the late 19th and early tat types which they require, presents the Piping Plover population there. 20th centuries, overhunting of many a unique set of conservation issues. Within North America’s interi- shorebird species by market hunters It is fortunate that the majority or, conversion of some habitats to and sportsmen alike was the primary of the world’s shorebirds breed far agriculture has become an issue for conservation issue of the day. The north in arctic/sub-arctic habitats other species. Conversion of arid passage of the Migratory Bird Treaty where agricultural and residential de- short-grass habitats to agriculture, Act in 1918 solved that problem. velopment are not feasible. For some for example, is considered a primary Today, only two shorebird species, species that breed farther south, causal issue involving declines in Wilson’s Snipe and American however, such development issues the U.S. endemic Mountain Plover Woodcock, may be legally hunted have become problematic. population. in North America. Both of these Among some of the plovers in Among some long-distance have demonstrably large and stable particular, conservation and manage- migrants such as Red Knot, Semi- continental populations. ment of North American breeding palmated Sandpiper, and Western For the remainder of the 20th habitats is needed for several species. Sandpiper, the majority of their century and now into the 21st cen- For beach-nesting species such as respective North American popu- tury, much has changed on a global Wilson’s, Snowy, and Piping plovers, lations annually use single staging basis, with many nations currently increasing residential and commer- areas (Delaware Bay, Bay of Fundy, involved in developing natural cial development and recreational and Alaska’s Copper River Delta resource-based economies. Thus, for use of beaches is an issue of primary respectively) in order to fatten up for most shorebird species, the far-flung concern. Recent changes in man- their spring or fall migration. With distances between breeding and win- agement considerations along the these, the primary area of concern tering grounds, combined with the Atlantic Coast beaches in particular involves the ongoing environmental specific nature of the wetland habi- have resulted in modest increases in quality of their respective staging ar-

91 eas; for if anything should go wrong cock were all listed as Species of eradication, shoreline stabilization, with any of these places, then the Conservation Concern in Louisiana. and habitat restoration projects. entire continental populations of Biological objectives were established Many barrier island restoration these species would be in immediate for these species, mirroring the ob- projects across coastal Louisiana jeopardy. jectives put forth in the 2001 United have been completed over the last Small North American popula- States Shorebird Conservation two decades while many are being tion sizes of the Willet, Long-billed Plan, 2nd Edition, published at the planned for the near future. In fact, Curlew, Hudsonian Godwit, Stilt Manomet Center for Conservation most barrier islands have either been Sandpiper, and Buff-breasted Sand- Sciences in Manomet, MA. restored or will be. Our understand- piper, among others, has been of In the Louisiana Wildlife Action ing of the impacts during restoration ongoing concern. In eastern North Plan, the primary shorebird conser- and the expected positive response America in particular, population vation issue involves the condition by both migrating and nesting shore- declines of Whimbrel, Sanderling, of the state’s coastal and barrier birds to these restoration efforts are Red Knot, Least and Semipalmated island beaches. The beach-nesting poorly understood. Efforts should sandpipers, and Short-billed Dow- Snowy Plover, Wilson’s Plover, be undertaken to link the ecological itcher have been detected over the and American Oystercatcher have response of shorebirds to these res- past 30 years. Habitat loss in both all been designated as “critically toration projects. Furthermore, the migratory stopover sites and win- imperiled” due to increasing hu- addition of project features includ- tering ranges is blamed for most of man disturbance issues along the ing the construction of overwash these declines. beach habitats that these birds use flats and near shore intertidal flats In Louisiana, where the primary to nest. The Piping Plover (placed are important components to in- migratory stopover and wintering on the Federal Endangered Species clude in the discussion and planning habitats for shorebirds were convert- List back in 1986), which does not of future barrier island restoration ed to rice agriculture a century ago, breed in Louisiana, but spends many projects. it is indeed fortunate that rice-farm- months of each year along Louisiana Over the last decade, the Bara- ing has proven compatible with the beaches, has been listed as “imper- taria-Terrebonne National Estuary needs of not only shorebirds but also iled” in Louisiana as well. Program and its partners including of wading birds, waterfowl, raptors, Regarding all beach-dependent the Louisiana Department of Wild- and many others. shorebird species, specific threats life and Fisheries, the U. S. Fish and In the 2005 document, Louisiana to Louisiana beach-habitat include Wildlife Service, and the Coastal Comprehensive Wildlife Conser- commercial, industrial, and resi- Protection and Restoration Author- vation Strategy (also known as the dential development; presence of ity have begun to assess populations “Louisiana Wildlife Action Plan”), invasive exotic plant and animal of both nesting shorebirds and, in published by the Louisiana Depart- species; and increasing recreational some cases, wintering shorebirds ment of Wildlife and Fisheries, a usage. Equally important is the loss across coastal Louisiana. Plans are “species of conservation concern” and erosion of Louisiana’s barrier is- underway to add to that knowledge listing was generated for our state. lands and headland beaches. Result- by continuing monitoring efforts This listing was made using multiple ing conservation objectives include and correlating that information to data sources, including those of the partnering with other state, federal, the restoration of Louisiana’s barrier U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and and non-governmental agencies in 1) shoreline. the Partners in Flight Program, as increasing public education regard- well as that of the LDWF’s own Lou- ing the needs of beach-dependent isiana Natural Heritage Program. wildlife, 2) working with parish gov- In this publication, Snowy Plo- ernments to recommend limits on ver, Wilson’s Plover, Piping Plover, recreational vehicle use, and 3) coor- American Oystercatcher, Marbled dinating and implementing habitat Godwit, Dunlin, Short-billed conservation recommendations such Dowitcher, and American Wood- as invasive exotic species control/

92 What Can You Do?

Educate yourself! Become aware Avoid nesting shorebirds. Typ- building or home. of the efforts of conservation organi- ically nesting shorebirds are both Participate in local Christmas zations that help protect and manage vocal and somewhat aggressive and Bird Counts! Each year around Louisiana’s wild habitats and the many use a broken-winged display to Christmas, many small groups of shorebirds that rely on them. lead you away from their nest. If you people at the local level join in the Keep your cats indoors and encounter this behavior, leave the counting of birds over a one day make sure that they are spayed or area immediately. period. Much of our understanding neutered! Each year it is estimated Apply affective techniques that about bird distribution particularly that cats kill hundreds of millions of prevent birds from flying into your in winter comes from these efforts. birds. glass windows both at home and at Help with habitat restoration! Limit your vehicle access along work. It is estimated that hundreds Several of the organizations below Louisiana beaches and never drive of millions of birds die annually by have volunteer corps that help make over and destroy dunes. Park at flying into plate glass windows. This the numerous projects initiated each designated access sites and walk with is particularly the case when habitat year a success. These organizations your kids along the beach to your de- is reflected by large panes of glass, or are always looking for new volun- sired location. Remember to bring when transparent glass allows views teers. Finally, go birding and enjoy out your trash when you leave. of habitat on the other side of a what you have learned.

For more information on what conservation organizations and government agencies are doing to protect birds or how you might get involved, visit the following websites: Barataria-Terrebonne National Estuary Program www.BTNEP.org 1-800 259-0869 Louisiana Ornithological Society www.losbird.org Louisiana Bird Resource Center www.lsu.edu/science/birdoffice Louisiana Dept. of Wildlife and Fisheries http://wlf.la.gov 1-800 256-2749 Louisiana Wildlife Federation www.lawildlifefed.org 225 344-6707 Gulf Coast Bird Observatory www.gcbo.org 979 480-0999 American Bird Conservancy www.abcbirds.org 888 247-3624 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service www.fws.gov/birds

* It is illegal to harass or kill species of shorebirds outside of defined and managed hunting seasons. Report violations to the appropriate agencies. Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries 1-800-442-2511 U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1-337-291-3114

Become a volunteer and help with coastal restoration or bird habitat restoration/monitoring programs. The Baratar- ia-Terrebonne National Estuary Program maintains a volunteer program and is always looking for new members. Call us at 800 259-0869 or visit the web site http://volunteer.btnep.org/

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A publication by Barataria - Terrebonne National Estuary Program