WILLET 
258. Catophophorus semipalmatus. 16 in. 
Bill long and quite stout; feet with small webs be- 
tween the bases of the toes. Upper parts brownish- 
gray, more or less speckled with black; most of sec- 
ondaries and bases of primaries white, very conspicuous 
in flight, and easily distinguishing it from any other 
wader of its size. Usually found in small flocks along 
the edges of marshes; they are said to be quite shy 
except during nesting season, and to be difficult to de- 
coy. After breeding they wander northward and are 
often seen in flocks of other migrating species. When 
standing on the beach they often indulge in curious 
antics, bowing and flirting their tails. 
Notes.—A loud, shrill whistle, “ pill-will-willet.” 
Nest.—On the ground; eggs buffy, blotched with 
brown. 
Range.—Breeds from the Gulf to New Jersey; later 
strays to Maine. 258a, Western Willet (S. s. inornata) 
is supposed to be slightly larger and paler. Breeds 
from Texas to Manitoba; winters along the Gulf coast. 
