Semipalmated & Sanderling? Montezuma NWR NY 9/20/22

[MWM]

Thinking #1 & #3 are semipalmated, #2 sanderling?

[AlexHenry]

I think they’re all the same bird, a Semipalmated

[MWM]

I think 2nd pic just seemed bigger in relation to the Killdeer.

[Charlie Spencer]

6 hours ago, MWM said:

#2 sanderling?

I could be way off base here but is this an expected environment for Sanderlings?  I've only seen them on sandy beaches where they look for food between the tide lines.  

Thanks!

Edited September 21, 2022 by Charlie Spencer

[lonestranger]

1 hour ago, Charlie Spencer said:

I could be way off base here but is this an expected environment for Sanderlings?  I've only seen them on sandy beaches where they look for food between the tide lines.  

Thanks!

All About Birds mentions mudflats as an "also".

Habitat

During migration and winter, they forage on beaches but will also use mudflats.