Western Willets are larger but more slender, with a narrower bill than Eastern Willets. Their breeding plumage is less strongly barred than their eastern counterparts. Piercing calls and distinctive wing markings make the otherwise subdued Willet one of …

Marshes, wet meadows, mudflats, beaches. Eastern race nests in areas of extensive salt marsh along coast; western race nests inland, around fresh marshes in open country, especially native grassland. In migration and winter, both forms occur on mudflats, tidal estuaries, sandy beaches.

The willet (Tringa semipalmata) is a large shorebird in the family Scolopacidae. It is a relatively large and robust sandpiper and is the largest of the species called "shanks" in the genus Tringa.

“Western” Willet is larger, paler, grayer, longer-billed, and longer-legged, giving it a more godwitlike appearance. Breeds in marshy grasslands in the Interior West; winters much further north than “Eastern” Willet, from both coasts of the U.S. to as far south as Chile.

Aug 10, 2008 · Someday these two subspecies may be split into full species, so it would be outstanding to get a head start on identifying every Willet we see. Western Willet: - longer-legged, larger size, and more lanky overall - longer, thinner bill (especially the tip) - paler than Eastern; juveniles appear grayish

Learn about Willet (Western): explore photos, sounds, and observations collected by birders around the world.

Western Willets breed in freshwater habitats, and are slightly larger and paler gray. Eastern Willets have stouter bills and more barring on their chest and back.

Its large size, drab plumage, and flashy wing pattern make it relatively straightforward to identify. more difficult and interesting endeavor is distinguishing between the two sub-species, “Eastern Willet” (C. s. semi-palmatus) and “Western Willet” (C. s. inornatus).

The Willet (Western) is a large shorebird found throughout the western regions of North America. This shorebird nests in the central provinces and states. It is a lighter coloured bird than the Willet (Eastern). During the winter months it can be seen along the Pacific coastlines.

Jul 31, 2024 · Get to know the willet—a large wading bird found along the coasts of the Americas. This guide covers all the bases, from identification and behavior to habitat and conservation. You’ll learn about the willet’s distinctive features, feeding habits, migration patterns, and more.