Thanks Greg...I appreciate the input. :) Frank is not at the Coastal Center now, so I have no expert to check with there. I need to also remember to check the seasonal charts to check species. The coloration of the birds was a deeper darker grayish color on top with white on underbelly. Some were more muted color on top but with white belly. couldn't see any dark coloration underneath, but as I said, they were quite far out, even for scope viewing. their behavior was like a "see-saw" with their bills and heads going up & down as their hurried along on the frozen mudflats. **************From Wall Street to Main Street and everywhere in between, stay up-to-date with the latest news. (http://aol.com?ncid=emlcntaolcom00000023)