The “Sandpiper” mentioned in this post was re-identified as a Ruddy Turnstone after the original publishing date.
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Perhaps my favorite shore bird! This Sandpiper runs up and down sandy Florida beaches, deftly avoiding wave action as it probes the sand for invertebrate prey.
Counting on this shorebird to be a Semipalmated Sandpiper. Photographed it mixed in with a bunch of Sanderlings.
The common Ring-billed Gull. Today this guy was photographed on Bonita Beach – but he can just as likely be spotted in a McDonald’s parking lot looking for easy handouts.
-Paul and Julie
The Big Year 2021 
Love these shorebirds! When we would run on the Del Mar beach in the mornings there were flocks of Sanderlings and I loved them so much. I have an old bird book that describes them as running to and from the waves like clockwork toys. So cute!
The orange legs on your Sandpiper and the territory map made me question that it is a Semipalmated. Check out Ruddy Turnstone (Page 136 in our Western Sibleys book) and let me know what you think. Anyone? – Blair
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I agree, Blair. The distinct color area around the neck is key and the leg color confirms for me. A juvenile or non/breeding adult Ruddy Turnstone. Those shorebirds, sandpipers, sanderlings, and turnstones plus many others often mix together. – Dad/Dean
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