[GiG]

Hi,

I saw this godwit this morning on my patch along the River Deben between Melton and Woodbridge. I had been scanning them for any colour-ringed birds when this one stuck out immediately. I was wondering if it could be a limosa race black-tailed as opposed to the usual islandica race that occur here.

It seemed larger overall but size difference was apparent with longer tibia making it taller and a distinct walking gait. The bill was also longer and a bit thicker at the base. The top of the head was a dark brown colour giving it a capped appearance with a pale supercilium and the orange went from the bottom half of the face down the neck only, stopping at the mantle and the top of the chest. It was white underneath. The mantle was a darker clour with even mottling - orange fringed with dark centres, not distinct orange/black in summer islandica or plainer grey in winter plumage. The coverts were noticeably paler.

Unfortunately a few joggers came past and so I missed it when it flew off, I had to step to the edge of the path out of the way. There are a few poor photos taken with my mobile.

Any thoughts would be welcome.

Cheers,

Gi

[CJW]

I doubt anyone is going to come up with anything useful based on the photos.
It's a 1st Summer bird is the best I could say.

[snowcap]

Judging from pic #2 I`d suggest its a juvenile bird.