Willets are large sandpipers that are common on southern beaches of North America, especially during the winter months. Come spring, some head for the Northern Atlantic Coast while others breed along prairie ponds and marshes of the Northern Plains and Great Basin.
Though they are usually encountered in small flocks, we observed a lone willet at Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area this morning. Foraging in the shallows with yellowlegs, coot and blue-winged teal, this visitor was feasting on a wide variety of aquatic invertebrates. Willets have pale gray plumage and, except for their size, might be confused with other shorebirds; however, large white wing patches become evident in flight, aiding identification.
Our lone traveler likely wintered along the Gulf Coast (where many willets are permanent residents) and is heading for the Northern Plains to breed. Little did he know that, by using a rest stop along the Missouri River floodplain, he offered a morning highlight for two human birders.
