and Himantopus mexicanus Palo Alto, CA July 2, 2008 I photographed these two shore birds together to show the difference in their bills. Avocets have an upturned bill which they often sweep side to side in the water. Stilts use their straight bill for probing in the mud. Different bill structures and lengths help birds in the same habitat keep from competing so much for food. This photo was taken at low tide at the Palo Alto Baylands.
Palo Alto, CA July 2, 2008 Black-necked Stilts have long, thin red legs.
It is easy to identify Willets when they are in flight, the distinctive white bands on the wings are visible. This flock may have been startled by a hawk flying above.
