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Willet (Catoptrophorus semipalmatus)

© John J. Mosesso

Length: 14-17 in.
Habitat: wetlands, moist praries; salt marshes, beaches (winter).

Birds often do the unexpected, thereby surprising observers who have a general familiarity with their habits. Although the Willet is a shorebird and so moght not be expected to perch on trees, bushes, and fences, often t does just that. When landing it holds its dramatically marked wings above its head, as if poised for fight. Willets are noisy birds. They often repeat their name—pill-o-will-o-willet—but they also have a variety of sharper notes. Its bill is long and sturdy. The plumage is mottled gray with black and white wing pattern visible in flight.