In winter, the Western Sandpiper (Calidris mauri) can easily be confused with the Semipalmated Sandpiper (Calidris pusilla) and the Sanderling (Calidris alba). 
It can distinguished from the Semipalmated Sandpiper by its relatively long sharp-pointed bill which is drooping slightly at the tip.
In winter, the Sanderling (usually) has a black patch in the shoulder which lacks with Western Sandpiper. 
Western Sandpipers, Sanderlings, Semipalmated Sandpipers and Least Sandpipers (Calidris minutilla) all occur in Colombia and can easily be confused with each other, especially in winter.
Least Sandpiper, however, has greenish-yellow legs while the others have black legs.
A recently (2013) discovered reliable field mark is that Sanderling (and Least Sandpiper) has a distinguised gape notch ("hook" or "line" at the base of the bill), in all plumages.
Semipalmated and Western Sandpipers don’t really show that gape notch. 
Most field guides don't mention this feature.

Los Flamencos Sanctuary, La Guajira, Colombia, 1 November 2014