We found this bird with relatively short bill than other adjacent whimbrels on 30 August 2014 at Mai Po mudflats, and the typical 'kink' in the bill for whimbrel was also not that noticeable. We discussed but ruled out 'little curlew', but were not sure whether it is indeed a 'whimbrel'. Could someone help please?
Young shorebirds typically take some time to fully grow the bill. This can often be noticeable with juvenile whimbrels, curlews and godwits during southward migration. Young curlews and whimbrels also have straighter bills than adults, which gradually develop the typical downward curve as they mature.
Your bird appears to be a juvenile, which would explain the relatively short and straight bill. Your photo illustrates this well. Author: irsychan Time: 2/09/2014 09:05
Thank you for your advice, Mike and John.
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