Shorebirds
Order Charadriiformes
Family Recurvirostridae
Black-necked Stilt Himantopus mexicanus
Late March – Mid-September
Status and abundance: Formerly a very rare migrant and summer resident. Now locally common migrant and summer resident; still rarely detected away from the Floodplains except at the major refuges.
Habitat: Mudflats and shallow water areas.
Records and remarks: The first regional record of this striking black and white shorebird was established on 3 July 1992 when an adult female was found at Ward Branch, Rend Lake, in Jefferson County (JD, TF, DK; DeNeal 1993). A second female was discovered just a few days later near Ullin, Pulaski County, 4-9 July 1992 (J. Herkert, TF). Then, in 1993 there was an onslaught of records as the stilts responded to the abundant habitat available in the Jackson County floodplain as a result of the great Mississippi River flood. Three were found on 21 May in western Jackson County (BD), and a maximum of 11 different birds was present in the Grand Tower area and extreme northwest Union County into Jul (SB). One pair even behaved as though it was attempting to breed; the female gave a broken wing display, and the male displayed agitated flight on 24 June 1993 in southwest Jackson County (Fink 1994). The last 1993 sighting was of 4 birds near Jacob, Jackson County, on 21 August (CS, BD). Then, in 1994, a spring arrival returned to Jackson County on 19 Apr 1994 (TF). A nest with 4 eggs was found in southwest Jackson County on 11 June 1994 (TF). Since then, numbers have continued to increase with nearly annual records, depending on conditions. In very dry years, when few shallow wetlands are available, they are sparse.
Example additional records:
1, Gorham, Jackson Co., 20 Mar 2017 (HD)
2, Crab Orchard NWR, 20 Mar 2017 (DM)
nest, ne. Massac Co., 1 Jun 1998 (VK, FB)
17, Kaskaskia Island, Randolph Co., 26 Jul 2009 (CT, T. Kuesel)
147, East Cape Girardeau, 17 Aug 2008 (EW, W. Serafin)
172, Union and Alexander Cos., 6 Aug 2011 (LS, D. Miller)
25, Big Muddy Levee Rd, Jackson Co., 12 Sep 2013 (JG)
2, East Cape Girardeau, 20 Sep 2008 (TM)
Documentation: Photograph—ad. female, near Ullin, Pulaski Co., 7 July 1992 (SIU uncatalogued).
American Avocet Recurvirostra americana
Late April – Mid-May
Mid-July - Early November
Status and abundance: Rare migrant.
Habitat: Mudflats and shallow wetlands.
Records and remarks: One of our most handsome birds, avocets forage by sweeping their up-curved bills from side to side in shallow water as they walk.
SPRING—Less numerous during spring than late summer and fall.
2, Carbondale sewage ponds, 11 Apr 2017 (JT, DM, KM)
1, Carbondale, 17 Apr 1982 (SO, M. Mlodinow)
14, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 17 Apr 2001 (KM)
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 20-21 Apr 1991 (BD, TF)
1, Bellrose Waterfowl Reserve, 22 Apr 2007 (KM, TM, m.ob.)
1, Pulaski Co., 3 May 1998 (FB)
4, Wolf Lake, 25 May 2008 (EW)
1, East Cape Girardeau, Alexander Co., 4 June 2020 (C. Gilbert)
AUTUMN—Generally encountered as single individuals until late autumn when small groups have been recorded. Birds in winter plumage have gray heads instead of the striking rusty color of breeding plumage.
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 10 July 1987 (WDR, TF)
1, Grassy Slough, Johnson Co., 8 Aug 2002 (FB)
7, near Gorham, Jackson Co., 20 Aug 2019 (HD)
3, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 27 Aug 1988 (TF, WDR)
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 27 Sep 2011 (WDR)
8, Crab Orchard NWR, 21-22 Oct 1993 (K. Phelps, TF)
4-7, Crab Orchard NWR, 3-12 Nov 1982 (B. Gelman, JCR et al.)
2, Carbondale, 10-15 Nov 2015 (JT, DM, m.ob.)
3, Rend Lake, 4 Dec 2010 (EW, LS)
Documentation: Photograph—Nason, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 27 Aug 1988 (SIU AP-250).
Family Charadriidae
Black-bellied Plover Pluvialis squatarola
Early May - Late May
Early August - Mid-October
Status and abundance: Uncommon migrant.
Habitat: Mudflats and shallow water of flooded fields.
Records and remarks: Forages along the water's edge at extensive mudflats, sometimes wading into very shallow water. Often forages on drier parts of mudflats, too, where sedges and grasses are beginning to sprout. Black-bellied Plovers in winter plumage can be confused with golden-plovers, but the black axillaries, larger bill, larger overall size, and whiter overall appearance are important differences.
SPRING—Most arrive in late spring with peak numbers passing through in mid-May. First arrivals are sometimes still in winter plumage, but by mid-May almost all are in full breeding plumage.
20, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 14 May, and one still there 1 Jun 1987 (TF)
36, Black Bottoms, Massac Co., 18 May 1998 (FB)
30, near Jacob, Jackson Co., 21 May 1993 (JD)
1, Ullin, 24 May 2006 (SB)
1, sw. Pope Co., 2 Jun 1998 (VK)
AUTUMN—Adults arrive before juveniles and are often still in breeding plumage. By Sep the juveniles begin arriving and all are in winter plumage. Some birds linger quite late.
1, s. Alexander Co., 28 Jul 2015 (WDR)
14, Rend Lake, 31 Aug 1998 (FB)
13, Crab Orchard NWR, 21 Oct 1989 (WDR)
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 30 Nov 1960 (LB)
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 1 Dec 1989 (WDR)
Documentation: Photograph—Ward Branch, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 31 Aug 1988 (SIU AP-258).
American Golden-Plover Pluvialis dominica
Late March - Early May
Mid-August - Mid-October
Status and abundance: Common spring migrant in Floodplains and Till Plain. Uncommon spring migrant in Shawnee Hills. Uncommon fall migrant throughout the region.
Habitat: Large plowed fields. Mudflats.
Records and remarks: During spring these shorebirds tend to frequent plowed agricultural fields, especially those with very finely tilled soil, whereas during fall most sightings are at mudflats. Golden-plovers fly in noisy flocks high overhead during migration. Indeed, they rarely stop in the Shawnee Hills, but are regularly encountered as they pass overhead. The majority of golden-plovers migrate north through the Great Plains and the Mississippi River Valley, but they go to the East Coast then south to South America during the fall, hence they are less numerous in southern Illinois during fall. The close relative of American Golden-Plover, Pacific Golden-Plover (P. fulva), occurs in western North America and has yet to be confirmed in our region. Nevertheless, they are known to wander widely so golden-plovers, especially those occurring at odd times of year, such as very late spring migration (June) or fall migration (November and December), should be scrutinized carefully.
SPRING—First spring arrivals are usually in winter plumage, but by April most are in molt and are quickly attaining breeding plumage. They can be especially numerous along the Mississippi River Floodplains in late March and April. The latest migrants usually occur at mudflats, because most agricultural crops have begun to grow by late May.
10, Alexander Co., 11 Mar 1993 (TF)
580, Alexander Co., 31 Mar 1984 (JCR)
895, Union Co. CA, 10 Apr 1971 (VK)
6, Alexander Co., 26 May 1984 (TF, JCR)
1, Rend Lake, 27 May 1976 (BP)
1, Miller City, Alexander Co., 12 Jun 2010 (KM)
AUTUMN—Southward migration begins with the arrival of adults by mid-August, but some early migrants have been seen during mid-summer. Most golden-plovers are in winter plumage during fall migration through southern Illinois.
1, Alexander Co., 26 Jun 1978 (MMo)
2 in winter plumage, s. Alexander Co., 5-19 Jul 1986 (WDR, TF)
2, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 3 Aug 1986 (LH)
35, s. Alexander Co., 23 Aug 1973 (D. Hayward)
11, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 24 Sep 1985 (LH)
1, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 11 Nov 1987 (TF)
2, Mermet Lake CA, 22 Nov 1986 (TF, WDR)
Documentation: Specimen—ad. male, near Miller City, Alexander Co., 26 Apr 1969 (SIU A-1627).
Snowy Plover Charadrius nivosus
Status and abundance: Very rare spring migrant.
Records and remarks: This small plover is mostly a bird of shorelines, both on the ocean coasts and along rivers of the Great Plains. When they have occurred here, they typically do not stay very long. Four records.
1, north of Gorham, Jackson Co., 19 May 1993 (TF)
1, Grassy Slough, Johnson Co., 28 Apr 2001 (DK, VL, KM)
1, Bellrose Waterfowl Reserve, 9-10 May 2004 (A. Spencer)
1, Ward Branch, Rend Lake, 28-29 May 2007 (DK, TD, LH, KM, m.ob.)
Documentation: Photograph—1, Grassy Slough, Johnson Co., 28 Apr 2001 (https://ebird.org/view/checklist/S42571023).
Semipalmated Plover Charadrius semipalmatus
Late April - Late May
Late July – Mid-October
Status and abundance: Fairly common migrant.
Habitat: Mudflats and shallowly flooded fields.
Records and remarks: Frequents the barren portions of mudflats that have minimal vegetation and standing water. Runs a short distance then stops and picks up a food item, pauses, then repeats the process. Generally, found in small, loosely formed flocks. Juvenal Killdeer can resemble these plovers at first glance, so take care during spring and summer when young Killdeer are common.
SPRING—First arrival dates are somewhat dependent on weather and habitat availability. In wet springs when flooded fields are common, these plovers can be very common. Migration peaks in mid-May and some late migrants linger into June.
4, Alexander Co., 12 Apr 1995 (TF)
68, Black Bottoms, Massac Co., 6 May 1989 (WDR, SO)
125, Pulaski Co., 9 May 2004 (SB)
100, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 13-26 May 1987 (TF, LH)
200, e. Massac Co., 22 May 2010 (VK)
3, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 7 Jun 1986 (WDR)
AUTUMN—Fewer seem to be detected in fall, a time when the only shorebird habitat available is along the edges of reservoirs.
1, Rend Lake, 25 Jun 2005 (LH)
3, s.w. Jackson Co., 12 July 1986 (WDR)
30, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 10 Sep 1988 (TF, WDR)
2, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 13 Oct 1986 (TF)
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 28 Oct 1989 (TF, WDR)
1, Rend Lake, 1 Nov 1994 (LS)
Documentation: Specimen—ad. female, Jacob, Jackson Co., 11 May 1969 (SIU A-2078).
Piping Plover Charadrius melodus
Late July - Mid-October
Status and abundance: Rare fall migrant. Very rare spring migrant.
Habitat: Sandy mudflats.
Records and remarks: Piping Plovers prefer the portions of mudflats that are sandier and covered in pebbles. Sometimes they associate with Semipalmated Plovers. Probably occurs annually during fall in small numbers but not reported every year.
SPRING—1, Ward Branch, Rend Lake, 13 May 2000 (B. Chandler)
AUTUMN—All recent records are from Rend Lake. Peak migration seems to be during early September.
1, Rend Lake, 6 Jul 2005 (LH)
1, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 18 July 1992 (TF)
1, Rend Lake, Franklin Co., 27-28 July 1986 (TF, LH, WDR)
1-2, s. Alexander Co., 1-9 Aug 1999 (A. Reyburn, m.ob.)
1, Bell Island, near Shawneetown, 7 Sep 1953 (RB, JWH)
1, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 8 Sep 1985 & 9 Sep 1986 (LH)
1, Carbondale, 14 Sep 1953 (RB, JWH)
1, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 13 Oct 1985 (LH)
1, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 24 Oct 1992 (TF)
Documentation: Photograph—Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 17 Aug 1990 (TF).
Killdeer Charadrius vociferus
Status and abundance: Common migrant and summer resident. Uncommon winter resident.
Habitat: Nearly any wetland area, golf course, agricultural field, mudflat, or large shopping mall parking lot.
Records and remarks: Killdeer are the ubiquitous shorebird of town and country. In towns they frequently can be seen foraging in parking lots and along mowed ditches. They nest on the ground as well as on gravel-roofed buildings. Any small patch of gravel may contain a nest.
SPRING—Migrants return soon after the first warm spell in February or even in late January in some years. True arrivals are difficult to confirm when winter has been mild because at least a few will spend the entire winter in our area.
2, Union Co. CA, 4 Feb 1991 (TF)
30, Carbon Lake, Jackson Co., 19 Feb 1949 (RB)
167, Union Co. CA, 5 Mar 2007 (KM)
SUMMER—Breeding begins in March. Nests are simple scrapes in patches of gravel where 3 or 4 eggs are laid. Downy young are seen from April through July. Some nest sites are seemingly poor choices, like those placed in the gravel piled up in the center or along the edge of rural roads.
43, Union Co., 5 May 1990 (VK et al.)
AUTUMN—Fall migration seems to have two phases. The first is the gathering of local breeders at the best mudflats, which happens during late June and July. These birds seem to move out during August. By September birds from farther north begin arriving. Their numbers can peak quite late, and many linger until freezing weather forces them south.
206, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 8 July 1986 (WDR)
520, Willard, 28 Jul 2015 (WDR)
600, East Cape Girardeau, 9 Aug 2008 (TM, DK)
200, Crab Orchard NWR, 5 Nov 1989 (WDR)
104, Alexander Co., 17 Nov 1984 (JCR)
WINTER—During mild winters Killdeer may be present throughout December and January, but when mudflats and shorelines freeze they depart the region.
217, Union Co., 21 Dec 2001 (VK, DS)
Documentation: Specimen—juv., 3 miles n.w. of Carbondale, Jackson Co., 10 July 1956 (SIU A-155).
Family Scolopacidae
Upland Sandpiper Bartramia longicauda
Mid-April - Mid-May
Mid-July - Early September
Status and abundance: Locally uncommon migrant and summer visitor in the Till Plain. Rare migrant in Floodplains and Shawnee Hills.
Habitat: Large grassy fields, pastures, airports, prairies, and hayfields.
Records and remarks: Difficult to see because they forage in tall grass fields, Upland Sandpipers frequently perch on posts and have a loud and distinctive call that makes them more conspicuous, at least during spring and early summer. Because of the destruction of prairie habitat, they have opportunistically begun to use airports and reclaimed strip mine land as foraging and, potentially, breeding habitat. Overall, population size across North America continues to decline.
SPRING—In most years the first arrivals appear early in the second week of April. Small groups can be found in areas with good habitat well into May. Some records from later in May could be birds attempting to breed.
1, Mermet, 4 Apr 1998 (FB)
7, Murphysboro, 10 Apr 1949 (JWH, RB)
5, Williamson Co. airport, 12 Apr 1984 (JCR)
3, Cypress Creek NWR 18 Apr 1995 (DK, KM)
1, Jacob, 13 May 2016 (HD, DM, JG)
SUMMER—No confirmation of breeding has been obtained, but there are several summer records from appropriate habitat. Breeding could occur on the grasslands of some reclaimed strip mines in the Till Plain.
1, 2.5 miles n. of Jamestown, Perry Co., 11 Jun 1989 (WDR)
1, Ewing, Franklin Co., 19 Jun 1981 (J. Joyner)
1, w. Perry Co., 19 Jun 1984 (VK)
AUTUMN—Some early fall records probably represent local birds moving to good habitat before migrating south. They leave early, most having departed by early September.
1, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 13 Jul 1986 (LH)
13, Williamson Co. airport, 18 Jul 1972 (VK, D. Hayward)
1, Sparta, 19 Jul 1998 (TD)
3, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 3 Aug 1986 (LH)
1, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 25 Aug 1985 (LH)
1, w. Jackson Co., 26 Aug 1993 (CS)
1, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 10 Sep 2005 (TD)
Documentation: Specimen—male, 3 miles n.e. of Thebes, Alexander Co., 6 May 1961 (NIU 123).
Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus
Status and abundance: Very rare migrant.
Habitat: Extensive mudflats.
Records and remarks: Whimbrels are large, charismatic shorebirds with down-curved bills and loud distinctive flight calls. They forage on mudflats and in grassy fields flooded with shallow water. Not detected every year.
SPRING—1, New Columbia, Massac Co., 16 Apr 2006 (FB)
3, Mermet Lake, 16 Apr 2012 (FB)
2, Grassy Slough, 26-28 Apr 2005 (KM, DK, m.ob.)
4, Black Bottoms, Massac Co., 15 May 2000 (FB)
1, Bellrose CA, Pulaski Co., 1 Jun 2020 (T. McCuen)
6, near Ullin, 2 Jun 1998 (VK, FB)
AUTUMN—1, Willard, 28 Jul 2015 (WDR)
2, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 3 Sep 1988 (BD)
1, w. Jackson Co., 8 Sep 1993 (CS, BD)
1, Johnson Co., 8 Sep 2002 (FB)
1, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 21 Sep 1986 (TF)
Documentation: Written description—Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 21 Sep 1986.
Hudsonian Godwit Limosa haemastica
Late April - Late May
Early September - Mid-October
Status and abundance: Rare migrant.
Habitat: Mudflats and shallow water areas of ponds and lakes.
Records and remarks: Forages by wading in water and probing mud. Occurs in small flocks or singly, generally not remaining at one site for more than a day or so. May not be detected every year.
SPRING—Most are in bright breeding plumage during their May passage through the region. Fewer have been detected during spring than fall.
1, Bellrose Waterfowl Reserve, 12 Apr 2007 (KM)
3, Big Bay, Massac Co., 9 May 1981 (G. Waring, H. Waring, WDR)
4, East Cape Girardeau, 11 May 2010 (KM)
7, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 19 May 2006 (LH)
1, Prairie du Rocher, Randolph Co., 27 May 1984 (RG)
1, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 30 May 1987 (TF)
AUTUMN—Most are in gray winter plumage, but some may still be molting and have patches of rufous on the underparts.
8, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 20 Aug 1994 (BD)
6, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 6 Oct, and 2 there 13 Oct, but only 1 on 20 Oct 1985 (LH)
1, Carbondale, 17 Oct 1970 (VK, D. Hayward)
1, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 19-24 Oct 1992 (TF, JD, DK)
1, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 23 Oct 1987 (TF)
1, Mermet Lake CA, 5 Nov 1991 (TF, JD)
Documentation: Written description—3, Big Bay, Massac Co., 9 May 1981.
Marbled Godwit Limosa fedoa
Mid-April – Early May
Late July - Early September
Status and abundance: Very rare migrant.
Habitat: Mudflats and shallow water areas of lakes and flooded fields.
Records and remarks: Forages by probing in shallow water, sometimes up to belly deep. Typically found as individual birds except for a couple of spring encounters of small flocks.
SPRING—11, Crab Orchard NWR, 15 Apr 1996 (BD)
1, Rend Lake, 16-17 Apr 2001 (DK, KM)
1, Belknap, Johnson Co., 17 Apr 2001 (FB)
18, Easter Slough, Pulaski Co., 3 May 2014 (N. Sly, P. Benham, D. Eddy)
AUTUMN—1, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 9 July 1994 (TF)
1, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 20-21 July 1985 (JCR, S. Stroyls, LH)
1, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 2 Aug 1986 (TF)
1, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 11 Aug 1991 (TF, JD)
1, s. Alexander Co., 16 Aug 1973 (D. Hayward)
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 22 Aug 1951 (LB)
1, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 18 Aug-5 Sep 1985 (LH, RP)
1, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 25 Aug 2012 (LH)
1, near Ware, Union Co., 6 Sep 2008 (KM)
Documentation: Written description—1, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 20-21 July 1985.
Ruddy Turnstone Arenaria interpres
Mid-May - Early June
Early August - Late September
Status and abundance: Uncommon migrant.
Habitat: Beaches and mudflats strewn with pebbles and small rocks.
Records and remarks: Forage while walking along and flipping over small pebbles and rocks. Flock sizes tend to be larger during spring than fall.
SPRING—Form small flocks of brightly plumaged birds. Peak numbers appear during mid-May.
4, Rend Lake, 12 May 1987 (LH)
6, Jacob, Jackson Co., 17 May 2016 (JG)
25, Rend Lake, 19 May 1987 (LH)
6, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 25 May 1986 (TF)
1, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 7 Jun 1986 (WDR)
AUTUMN—Fall migrants apparently move toward the East Coast via the Great Lakes, so fewer turnstones pass through southern Illinois. Most are in winter plumage at least by the end of August.
1, Rend Lake, 24 July 1976 (BP)
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 3 Aug 1972 (VK)
7, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 12 Aug 1995 (DK, KM)
1, along Ohio River, near Mound City, Pulaski Co., 30 Aug 1875 (Nelson 1877)
13, w. Jackson Co., 6 Sep 1993 (CS)
3, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 22 Sep 1985 (LH)
Documentation: Photograph—Ward Branch, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 19 Sep 1987 (SIU AP-42).
Red Calidris canutus
Late July - Early November
Status and abundance: Very rare spring migrant. Rare fall migrant.
Habitat: Mudflats and beaches.
Records and remarks: Knots forage by short probing and picking motions in shallow water and at the water's edge. They are plump, robin-sized birds that sometimes associate with dowitchers. Eastern North American populations have strongly declined in the last 25 years, perhaps limiting the number of observations we are likely to make in southern Illinois as well.
SPRING—Only one spring record: a bird in full breeding plumage was at Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 2 May 1987 (TF, L. Augustine, WDR).
AUTUMN—Early fall migrants are usually still in breeding plumage, but later ones are in their gray winter plumage. Nearly all records are from Rend Lake, Jefferson County:
1, 22 July 1989 (BD)
1, 14 Aug 2004 (DK)
1, 20-23 Aug 1986 (TF, LH, WDR)
1, 24 Aug 1976 (BP)
4 imm., 5 Sep 1992 (TF, JD, DK)
1, 15 Sep 2001 (TD)
1, 17-18 Sep 2004 (KM, R. Zoanetti)
1, 7 & 28-30 Sep (LH, D. Jones), and 2 there 20 Sep 1986 (WDR)
1, 22-23 Sep 1985 (TF et al.)
1, 2 Oct 1994 (TF)
1 imm., 4 Nov 1991 (TF et al.)
Others:
1, East Cape Girardeau, Alexander Co., 7 Sep 2019 (J. Herkert)
Documentation: Photograph—Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 22-23 Sep 1985 (SIU AP-43).
Ruff Calidris pugnax
Status and abundance: Very rare visitor.
Habitat: Mudflats and shallow wetlands.
Records and remarks: North American reports of this Eurasian species have increased in the past couple of decades, indicating that some are probably breeding in the Canadian Arctic now. The first southern Illinois record was a male at Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 20 Aug 1994 (TF, MS). Since then, at least three other sightings have been reported:
male, Crab Orchard NWR, 30 Apr 2004 (J. McKee, C. McKee)
1, Massac Co., 13 Oct 2004 (FB)
1, Grassy Slough, Johnson Co., 26 Apr 2005 (DK, KM, P. Lehman, m.ob.)
Documentation: Photograph—1, Grassy Slough, Johnson Co., 26 Apr 2005 (https://ebird.org/view/checklist/S42573725 ).
Stilt Sandpiper Calidris himantopus
Late April - Late May
Mid-July – Late October
Status and abundance: Uncommon spring migrant. Fairly common fall migrant.
Habitat: Mudflats and shallow water portions of flooded fields.
Records and remarks: Stilt Sandpipers in breeding plumage are easily identified by their barred bellies, but those in winter plumage look superficially like Lesser Yellowlegs and can be overlooked. Stilt Sandpipers have a thicker bill with slightly drooped tip and greener legs than Lesser Yellowlegs. Foraging behavior involves quick, jerky probing motions in water up to belly deep. Often associates with dowitchers and yellowlegs.
SPRING—Arrival dates are highly variable. In some years none arrive until May. Migration peaks in early to mid-May. Most have departed by 25 May.
3, Pulaski Co., 13 Apr 2000 (KM)
2, Cypress Creek NWR, 18 Apr 1992 (TF, WDR)
8, sw. Union Co., 9 May 1997 (VK)
15, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 14 May 1987 (TF)
2, Baldwin Lake, 26 May 2006 (TD)
AUTUMN—Birds gather in good habitat during fall with other shorebirds. Peak numbers are present during September, and most are gone by early October. Some juveniles may linger later.
2, s. Alexander Co., 5 July 1986 (WDR)
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 15 July 1987 (WDR)
96, Rend Lake, 6 Aug 1994 (TF)
70, Crab Orchard NWR, 12 Sep 1987 (WDR)
55, Crab Orchard NWR, 5 Oct 1983 (JCR)
2, Crab Orchard NWR, 5 Nov 1989 (WDR)
Documentation: Photograph—Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 12 Aug 1989 (SIU uncatalogued).
Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea
Status and abundance: Very rare visitor.
Records and remarks: One record. An adult in breeding plumage was found on a mudflat at Wayne-Fitzgerrell State Park, Rend Lake, Franklin County, 23 July 1976 (Peterjohn and Morrison 1977). It was observed well at close range near dusk, but could not be relocated the next day.
Documentation: Written description—above record.
Sanderling Calidris alba
Early May - Late May
Early August - Mid-October
Status and abundance: Uncommon migrant.
Habitat: Sandy beaches and mudflats.
Records and remarks: This hyperactive shorebird seems always to be running. It sprints after food items washed up on shore by retreating waves, then quickly withdraws ahead of the next oncoming crest. Surprisingly few shorebird species make use of the extensive sandbars in the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers, except for Sanderlings during migration.
SPRING—The first migrants arrive at about the time of the annual Spring Bird Count, but the majority do not pass through until mid- or late May. Most birds are in full breeding plumage during spring.
3, Massac Co., 5 May 1998 (FB)
1, Big Bay, Massac Co., 7 May 1988 (WDR)
36, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 18 May 1987 (TF)
AUTUMN—Many more fall than spring records. Fall migration seems to be more leisurely, so birds may remain at sites with good habitat longer.
2, Rend Lake, Franklin Co., 27 July 1986 (LH)
12, Rend Lake, 3 Aug 1986 (LH)
13, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 13 Aug 1987 (TF)
1, Santa Fe Chute, Alexander Co., 3 Sep 1988 (WDR)
17, Rend Lake, 22 Sep 1976 (BP)
26, Rend Lake, 13 Oct 1999 (LH)
27, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 19 Oct 1992 (TF, JD)
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 26 Oct 1989 (WDR)
1, Rend Lake, 2 Nov 2002 (FB)
Documentation: Photograph—Rend Lake, Franklin Co., 10 Sep 1988 (SIU AP-240).
Dunlin Calidris alpina
Late April - Late May
Early October - Mid-November
Status and abundance: Uncommon migrant. Rare winter visitor.
Habitat: Mudflats.
Records and remarks: Dunlin gather in flocks, which forage rapidly by probing and picking at food in shallow water and on mudflats. When available, they also forage in standing water in agricultural fields. Uncommon, they can easily be missed in a day's birding, even at the peak of their migration.
SPRING—Most birds do not arrive until May, and by then they are in their strikingly beautiful breeding plumage. Very early arrivals are still in gray winter plumage or molting into breeding plumage.
1, Union Co., 21 Mar 1996 (KM)
1, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 4 Apr 1987 (TF)
2, Cypress Creek NWR, 17-18 Apr 1992 (TF, WDR)
47, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 16 May 1986 (WDR)
279, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 18 May 1987 (TF)
AUTUMN—Arrives late in fall, and sometimes lingers into early winter. May gather in large flocks at good habitat. All are in winter plumage by the time they arrive.
1, w. Jackson Co., 24 Aug 1993 (CS)
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 26 Sep 1989 (BD)
260, Crab Orchard NWR, 21 Oct 1989 (WDR)
225, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 23 Oct 1987 (TF)
40, Crab Orchard NWR, 28 Nov 1989 (WDR)
15, Rend Lake, 5 Dec 1975 (BP, MMo)
WINTER—Increasingly reported during winter in the last 25 years.
5, Mermet Lake, 28 Dec 2001 (FB)
2, Union Co. CA, 29 Dec 2012 (SB, PM)
8, Mermet Lake, 31 Dec 2003 (FB)
1, Rend Lake, 1 Jan 1995 (LS)
1, Carbondale, 27-28 Jan 1988 (WDR, B. Millard et al.).
Documentation: Photograph—Carbondale, Jackson Co., 18 Nov 1984 (SIU AP-51).
Baird's Sandpiper Calidris bairdii
Late April - Mid-May
Mid-August - Mid-October
Status and abundance: Rare spring migrant. Uncommon fall migrant.
Habitat: Mudflats and shorelines.
Records and remarks: Baird's typically forage on the drier portions of mudflats where sparse, short vegetation is growing. Most birds move northward during spring in a narrow path through the Great Plains. In the fall, however, the birds move down along the oceanic coasts so the front is wider and more birds pass through southern Illinois.
SPRING—Peak numbers pass through during May.
1, Logan Hollow, Jackson Co., 31 Mar 2014 (KM)
5, Logan Hollow, Jackson Co., 18 Apr 2004 (KM)
3, Crab Orchard NWR, 6 May 1986 (SO)
11, Rend Lake, 14 May 1976 (BP)
6, Rend Lake, 16 May 1996 (LS)
5, East Cape Girardeau, 12 Jun 2002 (VK)
AUTUMN—Early arrivals are adults. Juveniles arrive later and are distinctly buffier than adults with distinctive scaly back feathers.
1, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 20 July 1989 (BD)
2, Alexander Co., 26 July 1986 (WDR)
7, Sparta, Randolph Co., 23 Aug-6 Sep 1971 (MMo)
21, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 16 Sep 1986 (LH)
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 1 Nov 1993 (TF)
1, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 3 Nov 1986 (TF)
Documentation: Photograph—Ward Branch, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 14 Sep 1985 (SIU AP-48).
Least Sandpiper Calidris minutilla
Early April - Late May
Early July - Mid-November
Status and abundance: Common migrant. Rare winter visitor.
Habitat: Mudflats, pools of water in wet fields, and muddy margins of lakes and ponds.
Records and remarks: Least Sandpipers have hunched posture and move slowly along barren mudflats and through wet grassy fields to forage. They form small flocks and readily intermingle with other small sandpiper species.
SPRING—Leasts arrive well ahead of most other peep species. Spring concentrations are much higher than those during fall.
1, Cypress Creek NWR, 19 Mar 2007 (KM)
1, Union Co. CA, 25 Mar 1995 (BD)
4, Saline Co., 9 Apr 1988 (WDR)
140, Carbondale, 8 May 1986 (WDR)
800, Bellrose Waterfowl Reserve, 9 May 2004 (SB, A. Spencer)
200, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 8 May 1987 (TF)
1, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 29 May 2007 (KM)
AUTUMN—Leasts arrive very early and linger very late during fall. Some birds linger very late even into winter until freezing weather forces them south. Usually found in groups of less than 30 individuals.
1, s.w. Jackson Co., 29 June 1985 (JCR)
25, Jacob, Jackson Co., 24 Jul 2015 (WDR)
30, Rend Lake, Franklin Co., 30 Sep 1989 (WDR)
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 4 Dec 1960 (L. Hood)
15, Rend Lake, 13 Dec 1975 (BP)
54, Rend Lake, 15 Dec 2012 (D. Miller, LS)
3-7, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 23 Nov-22 Dec 1990 (TF, WDR, JD)
WINTER—In mild winters it is possible a few might overwinter, because they routinely do so in the Memphis, Tennessee, area (J. Robinson 1990). At least three Rend Lake CBC records as well (2001, 2004, and 2015; KM)
3, Alexander Co., 28 Dec 2000 (DK, KM)
1, on a Mississippi River sandbar, Alexander Co., 29 Dec 1976 (MMo)
12, Mermet Lake, 31 Dec 2005 (FB)
Documentation: Photograph—Ward Branch, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 16 Sep 1987 (SIU AP-47).
White-rumped Sandpiper Calidris fuscicollis
Early May - Early June
Mid-August - Late October
Status and abundance: Uncommon spring migrant. Occasional fall migrant.
Habitat: Mudflats.
Records and remarks: White-rumped Sandpipers join other small sandpipers on mudflats, but are fairly readily identified by their long-winged appearance, white rump, and high, thin "mousey" call note.
SPRING—The northward migration route for this species is through the Great Plains, so they are much more numerous here in spring than fall. Numbers vary dramatically from year to year, however; some years very few are seen in our region.
2, Ullin, Pulaski Co., 26 Apr 1987 (SO)
3, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 8 May 1987 (TF)
1, Mermet Lake CA, 9 May 1987 (WDR)
50, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 19 May 1987 (LH)
40, Black Bottoms, Massac Co., 28 May 2010 (DK)
28, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 7 Jun 1986 (WDR)
7, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 14 Jun 1988 (WDR)
AUTUMN—Most individuals migrate from their Arctic breeding grounds south along the East Coast in fall, so most individuals bypass southern Illinois.
2, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 3 July 1992 (TF, JD, DK)
3, Union Co., 16 Oct 1999 (FB)
70, Rend Lake, Franklin Co., 12 Oct 2015 (DM)
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 26 Oct 1989 (WDR)
1, Rend Lake, 28 Nov 2008 (EW)
Documentation: Written description—Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 31 Aug 1986.
Buff-breasted Sandpiper Calidris subruficollis
Mid-August - Early October
Status and abundance: Very rare spring migrant. Rare fall migrant, except at Rend Lake where it is uncommon.
Habitat: Extensive mudflats and short grass fields.
Records and remarks: Buff-breasted Sandpipers utilize the drier portions of mudflats with short vegetation. They often form small groups and forage together by snatching insects off of vegetation and those flushed into the air. Also found in plowed fields, a habitat infrequently checked by observers.
SPRING—Spring sightings are exceptional.
5, Willard, Alexander County, 5 Apr 1991 (TF, JD)
1, w. Union Co., 9 May 2009 (VK)
AUTUMN—Occurs regularly at Rend Lake, especially at Ward Branch. Peak numbers are found during September. Away from Rend Lake, may be found in expansive open short grass fields.
1-2, Ward Branch, Rend Lake, 28-30 Jul (TM, m.ob.)
3, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 1 Aug 1992 (TF)
5, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 20 Aug 1988 (TF, WDR)
25, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 26 Aug 2012 (KM)
19, s.w. Jackson Co., 3 Sep 1973 (D. Hayward et al.)
26, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 8 Sep 1985 (LH)
15, Rend Lake, 22 Sep 1976 (BP)
1, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 13 Oct 1985 (TF)
1, Mermet, 18 Oct 2002 (FB)
Documentation: Photograph—Ward Branch, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 8 Sep 1987 (SIU AP-53).
Pectoral Sandpiper Calidris melanotos
Mid-March - Mid-May
Mid-July - Early November
Status and abundance: Common migrant. Very rare winter visitor.
Habitat: Mudflats, plowed fields, pond and lake edges, and grassy pools of shallow water.
Records and remarks: One of the region's most numerous shorebirds, Pectoral Sandpipers forage in a wide variety of habitats. They regularly form large flocks, often including other species of shorebirds such as Least and Semipalmated Sandpipers.
SPRING—Timing of first arrivals is affected by weather patterns. In some years none will be detected until very late March, whereas in others it is possible a few might arrive in very late February. Peak numbers occur during April and early May, then they are suddenly gone by about 20 May.
1, Jackson Co., 8 Mar 1951 (RB)
51, Union Co. CA, 8 Mar 1992 (TF, JD, DK)
15, Pulaski Co., 11 Mar 2001 (FB)
3,000, Bellrose Waterfowl Reserve, 9 Apr 2010 (KM, MS)
4, Willard, 26 May 2008 (EW)
AUTUMN—Fall migration is very protracted. A few adults return very early each fall, but the majority of Pectoral Sandpipers do not pass through southern Illinois until late Jul and Aug.
1, Gorham, 21 Jun 2014 (NG)
1, s.w. Jackson Co., 27 June 1989 (WDR)
3,300, Willard, 28 Jul 2015 (WDR)
1, Carbondale, 17-25 Nov 1984 (JCR)
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 5 Dec 1960 (L. Hood)
WINTER—1, Rend Lake, 23 Dec 1994 (LS)
1, Mermet Lake, 19 and 24 Jan 2004 (FB)
Documentation: Specimen—ad. female, 6.5 miles w. of Murphysboro, Jackson Co., 11 Apr 1957 (SIU A-160).
Semipalmated Sandpiper Calidris pusilla
Early May - Early June
Mid-July - Mid-October
Status and abundance: Common migrant.
Habitat: Mudflats.
Records and remarks: Semipalmated Sandpipers are usually found on mudflats with sparse or no vegetation. They walk along rather slowly, picking rapidly at the surface of the ground. Sometimes they form large flocks that, when flushed, bunch together and maneuver erratically before settling back down some distance away. They are often seen together with other species of shorebirds, especially Least and Pectoral Sandpipers. Identification can be challenging, particularly in fall when birds of different ages and plumages are present together, along with several other species of shorebird.
SPRING—First spring arrivals sometimes appear by late April, but in most years they are not found until early May. Peak numbers are present in mid- and late May, and a few linger each summer well into June.
1, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 21 Apr 1987 (TF)
2, Vienna, Johnson Co., 24 Apr 1982 (SO)
600, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 13 May 1987 (TF)
200, Union Co., 29 May 1999 (KM)
115, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 1 Jun 1987 (TF)
30, Baldwin Lake, 4 Jun 2006 (DK)
6, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 7 Jun 1986 (WDR)
AUTUMN—Only three or four weeks after the last spring migrants have departed, the first fall migrants arrive. Numbers are not quite as large as during spring.
2, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 8 Jul 1986 (WDR)
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 10 Jul 1987 (WDR)
25, East Cape Girardeau, 19 Jul 1990 (WDR et al.)
200, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 4-16 Aug 1986 (TF, WDR)
200, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 13 Sep 1989 (WDR)
1, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 11 Nov 1989 (TF, WDR, J. Hardt)
1, Rend Lake, 26 Nov 2008 (LS)
Documentation: Specimen—male, Neunert, Jackson Co., 10 May 1969 (SIU A-1991).
Western Sandpiper Calidris mauri
Early May - Late May
Late July - Late October
Status and abundance: Rare spring migrant. Uncommon fall migrant.
Habitat: Mudflats.
Records and remarks: Western Sandpipers are ecologically and physically similar to Semipalmated Sandpipers, but are much less numerous in southern Illinois. Western Sandpipers have slightly different structure of the bill, which appears a bit longer with some narrowing and drooping at the tip. In adult breeding plumage, Western Sandpipers have more prominent flank streaking and more reddish coloration on the scapulars and crown. In juvenile and winter plumage, the structural differences remain, but the reddish coloration is absent so identification marks are subtler. Fortunately, they often associate with Semipalmated Sandpipers during migration, which can facilitate direct comparison for identification purposes. Less experienced observers should also take care with the similarity, in winter plumages, of Dunlin and Western Sandpipers. Observers are encouraged to archive photos in eBird.
SPRING—Most migrate north through western North America, thus passing largely west of southern Illinois.
1, Union Co., 28 Apr 1988 (VK, LH)
2, Massac Co., 8 May 1998 (FB)
12, Baldwin Lake, 26 May 2006 (TD)
3, Rend Lake, 4 Jun 1977 (MMo)
AUTUMN—Southward migration begins early as some adults from Alaskan breeding grounds migrate toward the Atlantic Coast. Fall migration is longer than spring, spanning 5 months.
3, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 8 July 1988 (WDR)
3, East Cape Girardeau, 19 July 1990 (WDR et al.)
1, Carbondale, 20 July 1985 (TF, JCR)
20, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 28 July 1985 (LH)
23, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 14 Sep 1989 (BD)
1, Rend Lake, 16 Nov 1998 (FB)
7, Crab Orchard NWR, 28 Nov, but only 2 there 1 Dec 1989 (WDR)
6, Rend Lake, 5 Dec 1975 (BP, MMo)
Documentation: Photograph—Ward Branch, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 16 Sep 1987 (SIU AP-46).
Short-billed Dowitcher Limnodromus griseus
Early May - Late May
Mid-July - Mid-September
Status and abundance: Fairly common migrant.
Habitat: Mudflats and shallow water areas.
Records and remarks: The two dowitcher species are similar in appearance and ecology. Dowitchers forage in shallow water, probing vertically up and down into mud. Identification is best done by voice: Short-billed Dowitchers give a rapid, rich tu tu tu call, whereas Long-billed Dowitchers utter a high-pitched keek. Bill length is not a reliable field mark because of extensive overlap in measurements.
SPRING—Peak numbers occur during the first half of May. Short-billed Dowitchers should be in breeding plumage by the time they arrive in southern Illinois.
1, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 27 Apr 1987 (TF)
12, Pulaski Co., 30 Apr 1998 (KM)
52, s. Alexander Co., 1 May 1971 (VK, D. Hayward)
49, Pulaski Co., 13 May 2000 (FB, KM, DK)
66, Rend Lake, 14 May 1976 (BP)
1, Alexander Co., 8 Jun 1985 (JCR)
AUTUMN—Adults still in breeding plumage arrive by early July. Juveniles arrive in August and linger into fall, although the last ones tend to depart before the last Long-billed Dowitchers leave.
5, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 2 Jul 2010 (DK)
2, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 8 Jul 1986 (WDR)
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 10 Jul 1971 (VK)
40, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 26 Aug 1984 (LH)
50, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 5 Sep 1985 (LH)
1, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 13 Oct 1985 (TF)
Documentation: Photograph—Carbondale, Jackson Co., 6 Sep 1970 (VK).
Long-billed Dowitcher Limnodromus scolopaceus
Mid-March - Early May
Early September – Early November
Status and abundance: Uncommon migrant.
Habitat: Shallow water areas and mudflats.
Records and remarks: Dowitchers typically wade in shallow water while foraging, often up to belly deep, probing mud in a sewing machine-like motion. Identification is a challenge (see Short-billed Dowitcher account). Vocal differences are the most reliable means to separate the two species.
SPRING—Long-billed Dowitchers arrive and depart much earlier than Short-billed Dowitchers. The earliest arrivals are still in winter plumage, so identification should be verified by voice.
37, Massac Co., 7 Mar 2008 (FB)
15, Cypress Creek NWR, 25 Mar 1995 (KM)
50, Bellrose Waterfowl Reserve, 29 Apr 2006 (TM, SB)
18, Black Bottoms, Massac Co., 30 Apr 2015 (KM)
12, Cypress Creek NWR, 4 May 1995 (TF, m.ob.)
AUTUMN—Long-billed Dowitchers arrive much later than Short-billed Dowitchers. Adults arrive first, numbers peak during September, then are mostly gone by about early October. Juveniles arrive during mid- to late September and sometimes linger quite late.
1 ad., Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 4 Aug 1988 (TF)
6, Union Co. CA, 3 Sep 1988 (WDR)
20, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 20 Oct 1985 (LH)
34, Crab Orchard NWR, 21 Oct 1993 (TF)
1, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 11 Nov 1987 (TF)
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 23 Nov 1982 (JCR)
Documentation: Photograph—Willard, Alexander Co., 4 May 1984 (SIU AP-55).
American Woodcock Scolopax minor
Early February - Late November
Status and abundance: Fairly common spring migrant. Uncommon summer resident and fall migrant. Rare winter resident.
Habitat: Feeds and roosts in low, wet areas in woodland and thickets during the day, and in open grassy or brushy fields at night.
Records and remarks: Woodcocks are best known for their unusual aerial display performed at dawn and, primarily, dusk during early spring. Except for then, woodcocks are extremely inconspicuous and easily overlooked. They forage for earthworms mostly at night. They sleep during the day.
SPRING—First spring arrivals are easily detected because they begin calling and displaying immediately. Some arrive very early following the first warm spell in late January or February. Displays may be reduced in extent if freezing temperatures return. The presence of a breeding population obscures departure of latest migrants.
1 displaying, Ozark, Johnson Co., 22 Jan 1990 (TF)
1 displaying, Makanda, 25 Jan 1989 (C. Paine)
18, Crab Orchard NWR, 22 Feb 2017 (JG)
9, Mt. Vernon, 5 Mar 1987 (TF)
SUMMER—Breeding begins very early with eggs being laid by early March.
downy young, Pulaski Co., 9 Apr 1990 (T. Girard)
3, Heron Pond NP, 24 May 1989 (TF, WDR)
AUTUMN—Usually seen as single individuals flying across roads at dusk, or flushed from wet thickets. The beginning of southward migration is obscured by the presence of the summer population. Most fall observations occur during October and November.
1, Johnson Co., 22 Nov 1989 (TF)
1, Franklin Co., 25 Nov 2001 (LS)
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 4 Dec 1982 (JCR)
1, Carbondale, 5 Dec 1985 (TF)
WINTER—A few may linger late into winter, but most depart the region ahead of freezing temperatures. In very mild winters, a small winter population may be present, but in most years few seem to remain.
1, Metropolis, 30 Dec 2015 (J. Smith)
1, Mermet Floodplain, Massac Co., 31 Dec 2003 (FB, KM, m.ob.)
1, Saline Co., 4 Jan 1997 (JD)
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 6 Jan 1985 (A. Balliet)
Documentation: Photograph—Rudement, Saline Co., Feb 1986 (SIU).
Wilson’s Snipe Gallinago delicata
Late August - Mid-December
Late February - Early May
Status and abundance: Common migrant. Uncommon winter resident. Very rare summer visitor.
Habitat: Marshes, wet grassy fields, grassy ditches, and mudflats.
Records and remarks: Wilson’s Snipe, formerly known as Common Snipe, gathers in loose flocks to forage in moist, open habitats. They generally prefer sites where vegetation is dense, obscuring them from view, but will occasionally forage on open mudflats, especially during migration. Their foraging behavior includes quick, jerky probing motions. Very well-camouflaged, snipes frequently evade detection until spooked by an observer or a passing raptor.
AUTUMN—First arrivals are often single birds found on open mudflats. Migration peaks in late fall: late October to mid-November. Many linger late into winter until freezing conditions force them south. The winter population makes determination of latest departure dates difficult.
1, s.w. Jackson Co., 17 Aug 1973 (D. Hayward)
1, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 20 Aug 1987 (TF)
20, w. Jackson Co., 25 Aug 1993 (CS)
105, Royalton, 2 Nov 2001 (LS)
WINTER—As long as unfrozen soil is available, at least a few snipes will stay the entire winter, but numbers often diminish during January and early February. As during migration, good habitat will often harbor fairly large concentrations of birds.
160, Rend Lake, 12 Dec 2012 (LS)
14, Union Co. CA, 8 Jan 1995 (TF)
12, Union Co. CA, 20 Jan 1992 (TF, JD, DK, C. Watkins)
SPRING—Presence of a winter population obscures arrival of first spring migrants, but birds begin moving northward soon after the first warm period in late February. Peak numbers pass through in late March and early April.
1, Cypress Creek NWR, 15 Feb 1991 (TF)
1, Pulaski Co., 26 Feb 1995 (KM)
150, Cypress Creek NWR, 29 Mar 2000 (KM)
1, Joppa, Massac Co., 10 May 1986 (WDR)
SUMMER—No confirmation of breeding has been obtained. Two mid-summer records, however, are suggestive of possible breeding:
3 winnowing, Oakwood Bottoms, 6-9 Jun 1973 (D. Hayward, VK)
1, n. Randolph Co., 3 Jul 1985 (TF, JCR)
Snipes breed early (late April and May), so searches in appropriate habitat at these times may reveal that some individuals breed within the region. However, it will be easier to detect possible breeding by locating displaying males given that males produce distinctive and far-carrying sounds during flight displays.
Documentation: Specimen—2 miles n. of Brownsfield, Pope Co., 23 Mar 1957 (SIU A-165).
Spotted Sandpiper Actitis macularius
Mid-April - Late May
Early July - Early October
Status and abundance: Fairly common migrant. Very rare winter visitor.
Habitat: Rocky shores of lakes and rivers; beaches and mudflats.
Records and remarks: Usually forages at water's edge from rocky shores, such as those along dams and spillways, but also on mudflats. Distinctive bobbing motion of the body and shallow, stiff wing beats are diagnostic fieldmarks. Normally found as singles or pairs except during the peak of migration when small groups can occur together.
SPRING—A few arrive early in spring, but peak migration occurs in late April and the first half of May. Some present in early June could be breeders, but we have no confirmation of breeding yet.
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 28 Mar 1987 (WDR)
1, Carbondale, 6-7 Apr 1986 (WDR)
1, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 12 Apr 1988 (TF)
18, Union Co., 27 Apr 1996 (KM, DK)
2, Little Grassy Lake, Williamson Co., 1 Jun 1985 (WDR)
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 2 Jun 1984 (E. Chato)
1, Baldwin Lake, 4 Jun 2006 (DK)
AUTUMN—Earliest fall arrivals may be birds that bred just north of southern Illinois. Most early arrivals are adults. Migration peaks during July and August, and the majority have passed through the region by mid-September.
1, Union Co. CA, 28 Jun 1990 (WDR)
1, Mermet Lake, 30 Jun 2016 (DM)
18, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 31 Jul 1994 (TF)
40, Rend Lake, 7 Aug 2010 (M. Winks)
1, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 17 Oct 1985 (TF)
WINTER—1, Rend Lake, 6 Jan - 10 Feb 2009 (LS)
Documentation: Specimen—ad. male, Alexander Co., 3 May 1969 (SIU A-1762).
Solitary Sandpiper Tringa solitaria
Late March - Mid-May
Mid-July – Early October
Status and abundance: Fairly common migrant.
Habitat: Wet grassy fields, pond, lake, and creek borders, mudflats.
Records and remarks: Forages in shallow water nearly anywhere except within heavily wooded situations. Normally observed as individuals or in small groups.
SPRING—First arrivals appear during the last week of March. Migration peaks during late April and early May.
1, Jackson Co., 23 Mar 1985 (JCR)
1, Mermet Lake, 25 Mar 2012 (KM)
32, Bellrose Waterfowl Reserve, 22 Apr 2008 (KM)
14, Massac Co., 6 May 1989 (WDR, SO)
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 26 May 1987 (WDR)
AUTUMN—Migration begins and ends early. Late July and August bring peak numbers. Most have migrated south by late September.
1, Alexander Co., 29 Jun 1985 (JCR)
1, sw. Jackson Co., 30 Jun 1989 (WDR)
25, sw. Jackson Co., 24 Jul 1986 (WDR)
21, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 5 Aug 2006 (KM)
2, Easter Slough, Pulaski Co., 21 Oct 2016 (KRo)
1, Ward Branch, Rend Lake, 22 Oct 2000 (TD)
Documentation: Specimen—ad. male, Alexander Co., 3 May 1969 (SIU A-2124).
Lesser Yellowlegs Tringa flavipes
Mid- March - Late May
Early July - Early November
Status and abundance: Common migrant. Very rare summer and winter visitor.
Habitat: Mudflats, pond and lake edges, nearly any wet grassy field.
Records and remarks: This common shorebird can occur seemingly anywhere during the peak of migration, even in roadside ditches and along stream edges. They can be very noisy, especially when an entire flock takes flight.
SPRING—First migrants arrive during the second half of March, rarely earlier. Migration peaks in late April and early May. Most have departed by 20 May.
2, Massac Co., 2 Mar 2011 (FB)
1, Union Co., 4 Mar 1996 (DK)
600, Pulaski Co., 13 Apr 1995 (TF)
415, Pulaski Co., 30 Apr 2015 (KM)
1, Alexander Co., 26 May 1984 (TF, JCR)
1, Levee Rd., Union Co., 3 Jun 2010 (DK, MS)
SUMMER—One mid-summer record could either be a very late spring migrant or a very early fall migrant: 1, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 14 Jun 1988 (TF).
AUTUMN—Adults return early. Migration peaks in September and early October. Large concentrations can occur in good habitat. Some birds linger late as long as the weather is mild.
1, Rend Lake, 25 Jun 2005 (LH)
101, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 22 Jul 1994 (TF)
104, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 5 Sep 1994 (TF)
85, Crab Orchard NWR, 5 Oct 1983 (JCR)
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 28 Nov 1989 (WDR)
1, Rend Lake, 29 Nov 2008 (LS)
WINTER—A few may linger very late into winter.
1, Horseshoe Lake CA, 28 Dec 2012 (SB, PM)
3, Rend Lake, 29 Dec 1994 (LS)
1, Porter Bottoms Rd, Johnson Co., 11 Feb 1999 (SO)
Documentation: Specimen—ad. male, Carbondale, Jackson Co., 5 May 1971 (SIU A-1740).
Willet Tringa semipalmata
Late April - Early May
Early July - Mid-September
Status and abundance: Rare migrant.
Habitat: Wet grassy fields, mudflats, beaches.
Records and remarks: Willets are more numerous in spring than fall, but are nevertheless rare at both seasons. They forage in wet grassy fields during spring, their loud calls and flashy wing patterns alerting observers to their presence. Willets are famous for not staying at one place for more than a few hours. Observers should pay close attention to Willets as the eastern and western North American populations may be divided officially into two species. We should normally have Eastern Willets in southern Illinois, but it is reasonable that westerns should appear occasionally, too. Observers are encouraged to archive photos in eBird.
SPRING—Willets tend to form flocks in spring. Most of them pass through in a two-week period centered at 1 May.
25, Pulaski Co., 6 Apr 1974 (AB 28:808)
4, Union Co. CA, 16 Apr 1995 (C. McKee)
29, Union and Pulaski Cos., 26 Apr 1999 (KM)
44, Easter Slough, Johnson Co., 30 Apr 2005 (KM, DK, m.ob.)
7, Big Bay, Massac Co., 9 May 1981 (G. Waring, H. Waring, WDR)
AUTUMN—Southward migration is of longer duration, but fewer birds have been recorded.
1, Union Co. CA, 3 Jul 1987 (RP)
4, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 3 Jul 1992 (TF, JD, DK)
18, Alexander Co., 7 Jul 2008 (KM)
10, Crab Orchard NWR, 14 Aug 1966 (George 1968)
6, East Cape Girardeau, Alexander Co., 19 Aug 2019 (HD, DM)
2, w. Jackson Co., 24-26 Aug 1993 (CS, TF)
1, s.w. Jackson Co., 1 & 3 Sep 1973 (D. Hayward et al.)
1 (juv. molting into first basic plumage), Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 5 Sep 1994 (TF)
1, Neunert, 11 Sep 2011 (W. Wood)
Documentation: Photograph—1, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 5 Sep 1994 (SIU AP-uncatalogued).
Greater Yellowlegs Tringa melanoleuca
Late March – Late May
Mid-July - Early November
Status and abundance: Fairly common migrant. Very rare winter visitor.
Habitat: Mudflats, wet grassy fields, and shallow flooded fields.
Records and remarks: Tends to wade in water when foraging. Associates with, and is usually less numerous than, its congener Lesser Yellowlegs. Yellowlegs migrate diurnally and their loud calls draw attention to them.
SPRING—Migration peaks in late April and early May. Yellowlegs do not need extensive mudflats like some shorebird species, but will often use small pools of water in agricultural fields, sewage pond edges, and roadside ditches.
2, Bellrose Waterfowl Reserve, 6 Mar 2005 (KM)
1, Pope Co., 14 Mar 1985 (JP)
300, Bellrose Waterfowl Reserve, 5 May 2010 (CT)
1, Ward Branch, Rend Lake, 28 May 2007 (KM)
AUTUMN—Usually not encountered in large numbers, but there always seems to be a few in any appropriate habitat. Migration peaks during September. Migration is very protracted, spanning 5 months.
1, East Cape Girardeau, 24 Jun 2006 (KM, m.ob.)
2, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 8 Jul 1986 (WDR)
15, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 28 July 1986 (KM)
1, Carbondale, 24 Nov 1984 (JCR)
WINTER—Rarely lingers late into December.
6, Rend Lake, 18 Dec 1999 (TF)
4, Rend Lake, 29 Dec 1994 (LS)
Documentation: Photograph—Union Co. CA, Union Co., 29 Mar 1986 (SIU AP-38).
Wilson's Phalarope Phalaropus tricolor
Late April - Mid-May
Early August - Mid-September
Status and abundance: Rare migrant.
Habitat: Shallow water and wet, grassy mudflats.
Records and remarks: Wilson’s Phalaropes are active shorebirds foraging by sprinting across mudflats chasing bugs and by spinning top-like while swimming in shallow water. Sexual dimorphism is reversed in phalaropes: females are more colorful than males. Can be found every year given enough effort, but easy to miss if habitat conditions are poor.
SPRING—Encounters during spring are one of the highlights of a birding trip.
1, Bellrose Waterfowl Reserve, 19 Mar 2012 (KM)
1, Bellrose Waterfowl Reserve, 26 Mar 2007 (KM)
17, Alexander Co., 5 May 1984 (TF)
39, Crab Orchard NWR, 6 May 1978 (B. Gelman)
13, Crab Orchard NWR, 11 May 2015 (DM)
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 26 May 1953 (L. Hood)
1, Jackson Co., 30 May 2014 (JT)
AUTUMN—A few are reported from the region every fall, but concentrations are small. Adults return first, but juveniles follow close behind with first arrivals present by mid-August. Phalaropes tend to stay at a site only for a day or so.
1, Levee Rd., Union Co., 9 Jul 2015 (DM)
1, Neunert, 28 Jul 2015 (JT)
juv., Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 12 Aug 1989 (WDR, TF, BD)
4, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 24 Aug 2002 (LH)
5, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 8 Sep 1985 (LH)
1, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 16 Sep 1989 (BD)
Documentation: Photograph—Willard, Alexander Co., 5 May 1984 (SIU AP-56).
Red-necked Phalarope Phalaropus lobatus
Early May
Mid-August – Early October
Status and abundance: Very rare spring migrant. Rare fall migrant.
Habitat: Shallow water areas and wet grassy pools.
Records and remarks: Prefers to forage in shallow water where it spins while swimming, as well as wades. Identification can be difficult, because Red Phalarope is very similar, but Red Phalarope is even rarer in our region. Most individuals are molting during fall, so a wide range of confusing plumages is possible.
SPRING—1, East Cape Girardeau, 2 May 2010 (J. Smith, PM)
2, Bellrose Waterfowl Reserve, 8 May 2011 (SB, PM)
AUTUMN—1, Rend Lake, 10 Aug 2002 (FB)
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 19 Aug 1972 (VK)
4, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 21 Aug 1994 (BD, CS)
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 5 Oct 2015 (DM, JG)
1, Ward Branch, Rend Lake, 15 Oct 2001 (TD)
1, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 16 Oct 2016 (DM)
Documentation: Photograph—Ward Branch, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 16 Sep 1987 (SIU AP-57).
Red Phalarope Phalaropus fulicarius
Mid-September - Early November
Status and abundance: Very rare fall migrant.
Habitat: Shallow water areas, mudflats, and lakes.
Records and remarks: The rarest of the three phalarope species in the region. All records are of birds that were in molt or entirely in winter plumage. This species sometimes stops during stormy weather and rests in the middle of large reservoirs. The thicker bill helps separate Red from Red-necked Phalarope at close range, but body sizes differ (Red is larger) and the amount of pale gray on the back in winter plumage differs (Red is paler). Observers are encouraged to archive photos in eBird.
AUTUMN—October through early November should be the best time to find this species. Stormy weather seems to improve chances of detection as these birds probably are more likely to stop in our area when we have strong winds and rain late in fall.
1, Ward Branch, Rend Lake, 28 Jul 2012 (LH, Y. Johnson, DK, TM)
1, Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 31 Aug 1991 (TF)
1, Rend Lake, 14 Sep 1998 (FB)
juv., Baldwin Lake, 21 Sep 1980 (R. Korotev)
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 1 Oct 1992 (TF, JD)
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 2 Nov 1986 (BD)
1, Crab Orchard NWR, 3 Nov 1975 (BP)
Documentation: Photograph—Rend Lake, Jefferson Co., 31 Aug 1991 (SIU uncatalogued).