The Godwits are looking out for danger from high points such as a gate or pole. They do this when there are young godwits around and will attack and scream when cars or bikes get to close.
From a distance they make for a nice portrait subject.
TFL
Edit: indeed a Limosa limosa, not to good at latin names and my list is unavailable on the new laptop. Shows that online lists are not always accurate, sorry...