We usually have problems identifying Sandpipers, especially when they’re flying. Our best guess as to the ones in the images here – based on size, plumage, and their being in our field pond – is that they’re Pectoral Sandpipers.

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But these images were taken in August, when Pectorals (if that's what these are) are supposed to have already migrated to Canada, Alaska, and the Arctic.

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Anyway, we have an excuse to point out that Pectoral Sandpipers get their name from the males’ puffing out their chests (pectoral muscles) to impress the females.

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It just occurs to us that we have fewer problems identifying Pectoral Humans than we do Sandpipers. (Brooklin, Maine)

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