The Two Bird Theory: Kentish Plover

Saturday 3 May 2014

Kentish Plover

2nd May 2014 - Dawlish Warren

I've been pretty well tied up with work and other commitments for the last few weeks, my regular visits to the Rec have only really been justified by the need to exercise the dog - and I suppose someone's got to check out the gulls. Obligations fulfilled and deadlines met, I decided to indulge myself with a day of 'proper' birding. I briefly considered driving the 60 miles to Northam Burrows on the slim chance that the Collared Pratincole was still present (turns out it wasn't) but soon decided I'd rather just nip down to The Warren and see what I could find for myself.

So, after wandering out towards the point, a couple of Wheatears (surely Greenland bound in May?), a few Whimbrels, Swallows and plenty of singing Whitethroats later, I find myself looking out over the sea at distant terns and an occasional skua - even more distant. While chatting with a few of the regulars, a few small waders appeared on the beach with the falling tide. A small plover hanging out with a couple of Sanderling turned out to be a rather smart female Kentish Plover - cheers, Lee. I haven't seen one for years and have never photographed the species before so, of course, I made the most of the opportunity.