Shorebird help please

[nkwali]

Two shorebirds that I'm struggling to id. Both are about the same size. Both were seen at Ashbridges Bay.

Thanks!

Shorebird by Nkwali, on Flickr

Shorebird by Nkwali, on Flickr

[Reuven_M]

These are our two smallest shorebirds, and two of the most common: Least and Semipalmated. Most other common species are distinctly larger, with the exception of Baird's and White-rumped which have very long wings extending beyond the tail.
On these two excellent photos compare:
Bill shape: Distinctly curved and fine-tipped in Least, straight (sometimes slightly curved) and blunt in Semipalmated
Leg colour: yellow in Least, dark in Semipalmated
Overall colour: darker with some warm rufous tones in Least, pale with very little warm tones in Semipalmated
Breast: Somewhat distinct breastband of streaks on Least, limited streaks on Semipalmated
Posture: Least typically looks like it's "crouching", Semipalmated is typically more upright

[nkwali]

Thanks Reuven

I really appreciate the comparison features. That helps a lot!

[Brian Bailey]

Nice shots! As Reuven detailed you have done an excellent job of capturing all the key features of the two species. At greater distance and in poor lighting conditions, they aren't always so easy to identify.

BB