Hi guys my mum took these picks at Osprey House in Brisbane and asked me what it is.
Unfortunately, my wader knowlege is limited.
At first I thought Common Greenshank but it doesn't have a slightly upturned bill.
I then though Marsh Sandpiper but the bill seems too thick.
Can I have your thoughts please.
I'm still a beginner when it comes to waders, but Id be inclined to go with Marsh Sandpiper. The bill looks ok to me, and it has the plain white/grey breast without the streaking.
LM
I'm thinking youngish Common Greenshank.
I agree with rick, mainly based off observations of the bill. Firstly the bill exhibits a distinct change in tone from pale grey to black that seems to occur midway down the bill, which is more characteristic of the common greenshank rather than the marsh sandpiper. Secondly if you zoom in extensively on the bill, arguably at the middle point where the tone change occurs the upper bill tapers off quite rapidly, which is one of the factors giving the common greenshank the appearance of an upturned bill, and also is more characteristic of the common greenshank rather than the marsh sandpiper. Given how subtle the appearance of the upturned bill can be, I don't find it surprising that it wouldn't be clearly visible given the angle and quality of the photos, and thus my guess is that it is a common greenshank rather than a marsh sandpiper.
Thanks guys. I did think the bill was a bit too thick for a Marsh Sandpiper, but the lack of the upturned bill confused me. You're right Amateur the angle could have hidden that & if it is a younish one like Rick suggested then that explains it. Thanks again for your help guys. Glad I was on the right track.