Common Sandpiper

Although I have only ever seen single Common Sandpiper I've started a sketch with a couple of these neat little birds -

This is being done in oils on a flat board. I'll add some photos as I  progress.

Have added a bit of foreground, but it seems to take something away from the picture. 

Don't know why but I like the first, part complete, sketch best. Seems to have a bit more life to it.

Have tried to put them in an upland stream as per their summer residence, but it still needs a bit work