Shorebirds at Bob Straub Park

I *think* I know what most all the shorebirds are that I saw at Bob Straub Park... in the rain... on Tues., May 2nd. But I'd love to be corrected if I'm wrong.

from left to right: Dunlin, Western Sandpiper, possible Least Sandpiper behind, not sure, Semi-palmated Plover, Sanderling, Semipalmated Plover

left to right: Western Sandpiper, 2 Dunlin

Sanderling

left to right: Western Sandpiper, Semi-palmated Plover, Dunlin, W. Sandpiper, Semi-palm

Western Sandpiper left and also behind the black-bellied Dunlin, Semi-palmated Plover in front

Whimbrel. There were 3 of them but one hung out alone facing the opposite direction. I wondered if it might be a Bristle-thighed Curlew but I could not see much, if any difference, from the other two

whimbrels

Same 2 whimbrels

same 2 whimbrels

Whimbrel

Whimbrel (I took a lot of photos)

Whimbrel

Whimbrel

The alleged Whimbrel that kept its distance from the others but moved with them when they moved

Owlets on the Ledge

When I reached the top of the loft ladder tonight (May 2nd), I saw the backs of baby Barn Owls on the ledge and heard them begging. I was afraid to go up for fear of scaring them into jumping off the ledge onto the lower roof.

But the goats needed their hay. So I went up.

I need not have feared. The little brats had no intention of going anywhere... not even back into their box.

 Well, one did disappear but apparently behind the others.

I went ahead and threw down hay for the goats.  When I started downstairs, I turned to look at the ledge as the babies had stopped begging while I was up there. I guess they were trying to look nonchalant here, or maybe they thought I couldn't see them if they only looked at me with one eye.

I just hope they don't attract any hungry Barred or Great Horned Owls while they are begging at the ledge. I would hate for them to become dinner for a more aggressive species.

We have never had baby owls come out of the box so early before. I hope that doesn't mean they are not getting enough to eat.