Variation in Sanderlings in Breeding Plumage

Sanderlings in breeding plumage are highly variable. No two are the same. On the beach at Wheatley Harbour on 17 May 2017. Males tend to be more rufous on the upper parts than females, however they can only safely be distinguished from females when in pairs on the breeding grounds (Chandler 2009).

While others are more muted, but all are intricately patterned. Wheatley Harbour on 17 May 2017.

Colours are dazzling and patterns are beautiful. Absence of hind toe is an important ID feature. Wheatley Harbour 17 May 2017.

More variation. Sanderlings love the beach at Wheatley Harbour 18 May 2017.

A bright individual. Wheatley Harbour 17 May 2017.

Lack of a hind toe distinguishes Sanderlings from stints, especially Red-necked Stint. Wheatley Harbour 18 May 2017.