Greater Yellowlegs

Description:

The Greater Yellowlegs is mottled gray above with a white eye ring and belly. It stands about 12-15″ high. Its most notable feature is its bright yellow legs. Its thin bill is about 2 ½” long and is slightly upturned. It is approximately one and a half times longer than its head. The Greater Yellowlegs has dark wings and a white rump. During flight, you will be able to see the white tail which is barred at the end. The sexes are similar in appearance

Habitat:

Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge, a haven for migratory birds and other wildlife, lies on the Big Mineral Arm of Lake Texoma, on the Red River between Oklahoma and Texas. The refuge is made up of water, marsh, and upland habitat. The main focus at Hagerman NWR is providing a winter home for thousands of waterfowl. Foremost among the waterfowl are Canada geese. During fall, winter, and spring, numbers can reach 7,500 or more. Other geese include white-fronted and snow geese, with a scattering of the smaller Ross' geese.