Long-billed Dowitcher vs Wilson's Phalarope

In short

The Long-billed Dowitcher and Wilson's Phalarope are both medium-sized shorebirds, but they differ in structure and behavior. The Long-billed Dowitcher has a notably long, sturdy bill and a distinctive 'sewing machine' feeding motion, while Wilson's Phalarope has a thinner, needle-like bill and is often seen swimming in circles.

Identification tips

• Bill shape: Long-billed Dowitcher has a long, sturdy bill; Wilson's Phalarope has a thin, needle-like bill.
• Feeding behavior: Look for the 'sewing machine' motion of the Dowitcher versus the swimming behavior of the Phalarope.
• Plumage: In breeding season, note the reddish underparts of the Dowitcher and the black streak on the neck of the female Phalarope.
• Habitat: Dowitchers are more likely in mudflats, Phalaropes in open water.

Size

Both species are medium-sized, but Wilson's Phalarope is slightly smaller (22–24 cm).

Plumage

Long-billed Dowitchers in breeding plumage have a reddish-brown underpart, while Wilson's Phalarope females in breeding plumage have a pale blue-gray forehead and crown with a black streak down the neck. In nonbreeding plumage, Wilson's Phalarope is pale gray above with a white supercilium.

Behaviour

Long-billed Dowitchers feed with a 'sewing machine' motion in mudflats, while Wilson's Phalaropes often swim in circles to stir up food.

Habitat

Long-billed Dowitchers are found in small pools and salt-marsh vegetation, whereas Wilson's Phalaropes prefer open water bodies where they can swim.

Voice

Long-billed Dowitchers have a distinctive call when flying and feeding, while Wilson's Phalarope's vocalizations are less distinctive and not emphasized in field identification.