On April 3, 2025, a long-billed curlew soared overhead. It is the largest shorebird in the U.S. Long-billed curlew: Length: 19.7–25.6 inches; Weight: 17.3–33.5 ounces; Wingspan: 24.4–35.0 inches.
Shorebirds winter in South America, Mexico, Central America, or the western and southeast coasts of the U.S. Beginning in April, they migrate north to nest. Some fly a great distance to Alaska and the arctic tundra; others travel shorter distances to the great plains and great basins of the U.S. After breeding, they return to their wintering grounds from July to October.
On April 17, 2025, a semipalmated plover fed on the mudflats. Semipalmated plover: Length: 6.7–7.5 inches; Weight: 1.6–1.8 ounces; Wingspan: 18.5–19.7 inches.
On April 17, 2025, a Western sandpiper fed on the mudflats. Western sandpiper: Length: 5.5–6.7 inches; Weight: 0.8–1.2 ounces; Wingspan: 13.8–14.6 inches.
Note the differences in plumage, shape, and size, especially the lengths and curvatures of their bills. They should pass through Denver again during fall migration and in all future migrations.
On April 23, 2025, a least sandpiper, the smallest shorebird, migrated through Denver. Least sandpiper: Length: 5.1–5.9 inches; Weight: 0.7–1.1ounces; Wingspan: 10.6–11.0 inches.
On April 23, 2025, a marbled godwit and a willet migrated through Denver. Marbled godwit (back left): Length: 16.5–18.9 inches; Weight: 10.1–16.0 ounces; Wingspan: 27.6–31.9 inches. Willet (front right): Length: 13.0–6.1 inches; Weight: 7.0–11.6 ounces; Wingspan: 27.6 inches.
A long-billed dowitcher appeared on April 26, 2025. Long- billed dowitcher: Length: 11.4 inches; Weight: 3.1–4.6 ounces; Wingspan: 18.5–19.3 inches.
Bird Walks: June 7 and July 5, 7:30am & 8am. Walks are free but you must RSVP at www.blufflake.org/birdwatching. All are welcome. Bring your own binoculars, or borrow a pair from your guide. 11255 MLK Jr. Blvd. Search www.FrontPorchNE.com for “Bird Sightings” to see all the past bird stories and photos from George Ho.
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