Photo Study Of Spotted Sandpipers In A PA Turnpike Ramp Drainage Ditch, June 28th, 2010

I was on my way this morning to monitor the Peregrines that were banded by Art McMorris on the PA/NJ Turnpike Bridge on May 7th. When I came off the Blue Route onto the Turnpike, I observed an adult Spotted Sandpiper (Actitis macularia) in breeding plumage and four chicks having a good old time bobbing away in the drainage ditch at the bottom of the ramp.

The most widespread breeding sandpiper in North America, the Spotted Sandpiper breeds along the edges of nearly any water source throughout the northern half of the continent. The female Spotted Sandpiper is the one who establishes and defends the territory. She arrives at the breeding grounds earlier than the male. In other species of migratory birds, where the male establishes the territory, he arrives earlier. However, it is the male Spotted Sandpiper who takes the primary role in parental care, incubating the eggs and taking care of the young. (From Cornell BNA, Wikpedia and audubonguides.com)

Also, this beautiful little sandpiper is at home around urban ponds as well as tundra pools and now as you can also see, Turnpike ramp drainage ditches. Naturally, I had to photograph them.

Spotted Sandpiper Adult

Spotted Sandpiper Chick

Spotted Sandpiper Adult

Spotted Sandpiper Chick

To see a larger image of any of the birds below, please click on either the thumbnails or the captions...thanks!

 © Howard B. Eskin 2010                        Please click here to see my earlier Spotted Sandpiper Photo Study

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