Date: 8/18/25 3:30 pm From: Toby Burke via groups.io <kenaibirder...> Subject: [AKBirding] KASILOF RIVER FLATS 8/18: CURLEW SANDPIPER
A molting CURLEW SANDPIPER, showing a substantial amount of red, was seen late morning on the rising tide at the mouth of the Kasilof River - north side, foraging on the intertidal mudflats. While on the mudflats the bird was in view and very conspicuous for over an hour as the tidal change is minimal thus a very slowly advancing tide. The bird worked the tide all the way from 200+ meters offshore to the gravel beach, giving exceptional views. After the intertidal mudflats were completely covered and shorebirds dispersed, we later refound the bird foraging along the muddy banks at the river mouth.
If others intend on chasing this bird we recommend optimally working the intertidal mudflats on a rising or falling tide. The sweet spot for this area is between +10 and +14 feet. Lower than +10 feet the bird will be too far off for satisfactory viewing. Higher than a +14 feet the intertidal area is completely covered, with shorebirds largely dispersing up river along river banks and to upland freshwater marshes. Shorebirds will occasionally persist after high tide on the gravel beach for a short period and shorebirds will also start to assemble on the gravel beach in anticipation of the dropping tide and soon exposed intertidal mud. Of course, these beach gatherings are often prematurely dispersed by loose dogs, four-wheelers, helicopters, marauding falcons, etc. Plan accordingly.
