Sandpiper (Least)

The Least Sandpiper is the smallest shorebird in the world. The sandpiper has brown-scaled upper parts and a rust-brown crown. Breast and throat are dark-spotted and belly and under tail are white. Wings have thin, white stripes visible in flight. Black line on rump extends onto tail. Legs and feet are yellow. Sexes are similar. Juvenile has white "V" on back

Least Sandpiper: Breeds from Alaska to Labrador and, in the east, south to Nova Scotia and, recently, Massachusetts. Spends winters from the southern U.S. to central South America and the West Indies. Frequents sandy beaches and exposed tidal flats.

Photographed in the wild, Cape Coral, FL