Yellowlegs the Great
We saw both Lesser and Greater Yellowlegs at Merritt Island National Wildlife Reserve. When they stand next to each other, there is no question about which is which, but seen at different locals in non-breeding plumage, things are a little more difficult.
The Greater Yellowlegs (Tringa melanoleuca) is considerably larger, more robust and with a thicker bill that is both larger than the Lesser's, and relatively longer (compared to head size). In addition, the Greater's bill usually has a slight upturn as shown in this picture.
The Lesser Yellowlegs (Triga flavipes) will shown in another post.
Yellowlegs the Great
We saw both Lesser and Greater Yellowlegs at Merritt Island National Wildlife Reserve. When they stand next to each other, there is no question about which is which, but seen at different locals in non-breeding plumage, things are a little more difficult.
The Greater Yellowlegs (Tringa melanoleuca) is considerably larger, more robust and with a thicker bill that is both larger than the Lesser's, and relatively longer (compared to head size). In addition, the Greater's bill usually has a slight upturn as shown in this picture.
The Lesser Yellowlegs (Triga flavipes) will shown in another post.