It is not all that reliable to identify dowitchers in winter based on photos. Over or under exposure can create a look that favors one or the other, although I am not convinced that coloration helps much in winter. Bill size and shape is a good pointer. One of the best features to go on is habitat in winter, Short-bills take tidal habitats, Long-bills fresh water or brackish/standing water.
Top bird has a very long bill that is straight and relatively thin at the base, so I would call that one a Long-billed. The other two I would pass.
From: <peninsula-birding...> <peninsula-birding...> On Behalf Of Peter Headland
Sent: Saturday, January 2, 2021 5:00 PM
To: <peninsula-birding...>
Subject: [pen-bird] Dowitcher id?
Can anyone id these Dowitchers (photographed around the Bay a couple of days ago)? (Please explain your reasoning.)
