Lesser Yellowlegs

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The Lesser Yellowlegs (Tringa flavipes) is a yellow legged shorebird that breeds in northern latitudes of Alaska and Canada.

They migrate to southern coastal areas of the United States for the winter, so you may see them across the United States during their migration.

They get their name because they are smaller than their cousins the Greater Yellowlegs. It's very tough to tell them apart unless they are standing together.

Generally, if you are near them, and they are not making a racket, it's a good guess it's the Lesser.

© 2005 Patricia A. Michaels