Pectoral Sandpiper (alternate)
The Pectoral Sandpiper is named for its showy pectoral sacks which the males inflate and deflate while flying to make a deep, eerie whistle which is used in mate attraction and territory defense. This first group of photos were taken in June on the breeding grounds in Alaska.
An excellent article on, and the sound of the Pectoral Sandpiper can be found here: https://animalecologyinfocus.com/2021/04/01/blown-away-how-male-pectoral-sandpipers-look-for-their-next-partner/
Pectoral Sandpiper (alternate)
This next group of photos was taken in Central Texas during spring migration. Due to its long legs the Pectoral often feeds in the diagonal position shown in one of the photos. Note the medium-length, slightly down-curved, two-toned bill, the long yellow legs, the sharp division between brown and white on the chest and the overall brown tones of the upper parts.
Pectoral Sandpiper (juvenal)
These photos show juvenile Pectorals in Central Texas during September on their journey south. Note the white lines on the back and the immaculate feathers throughout the upper parts.
Comparisons
Pectoral Sandpiper vs Least Sandpiper
The Pectoral is sometimes described as “a very large Least”. It shares the brownish tones, yellow legs and slightly down-curved, medium length bill with the Least. However, as seen below it is much larger and longer-legged. One photo also shows the Pectoral compared to the Semipalmated Sandpiper and Lesser Yellowlegs.
