A gentlemanly personal note sent to me from Ron Pittiway regarding my report of a Short-billed Dowitcher north of Newmarket today was very helpful to me and could prove likewise to others regarding this species and Long-billed Dowitchers: He wrote "Your bird is much more likely a Long-billed Dowitcher at this date. Some Long-billed are now still largely in basic plumage whereas early Short-billed tend to be be more in alternate plumage. I've seen Long-billed in Ontario in April, but never Short-billed." Many thanks for this information, Ron. There is always more to learn - and that is another of the great things about this hobby. Ron Fleming, Newmarket
