Red knots

This Sandpiper is large and stocky, with a straight, medium-length bill and short legs. To be honest, identifying them in the field is challenging for me. I find it helpful to be on the lookout for behavior with these guys. They forage slower and more deliberate than other Sandpipers, which can be helpful.

Still, these amazing little shorebirds fill my heart with excitement when I see them--even if they're just sitting there being the cool, Texas residents that they are.