Pectoral Sandpiper (Calidris melanotos)

Pectoral Sandpipers usually spend the winter months in South America. A few migrate to Hawai`i. Look for this uncommon bird in the months of August, September, and October on mudflats and shallow ponds.The Pectoral Sandpiper and Sharp-tailed Sandpiper (another uncommon migrant) are very similar in size and appearance. To distinguish the two, pay attention to both the breast and the chestnut cap. The rusty crown of the Pectoral Sandpiper does not contrast markedly with the rest of the head plumage. The conspicuous streaks on the breast do, however, contrast strongly with the white un-streaked underbelly. There is a definite demarcation between the two areas on the underside of the species. The white shorebird in the background is a Sanderling.