field of sheep
Well-known member
Great to have the Spotted Sandpiper confirmed yesterday. Managed to see it briefly at Landguard viewpoint but vanished soon after. A fantastic bird for Suffolk that's for sure.
But its a Common Sandpiper surely?
No Jane it's a spotted sandpiper. A friend of mine and another birder got permission to enter the dock and got pictures and id conformation. See bird guides Suffolk for photos.
I thank you.
Deffo Common by the length of that tail, among other things.
Not even finding it remotely funny. Is this some kind of wind up?
Or honest mistake, happens.
Damn it yes that was the bird, glad I held off ticking it in my funny book.
Surprised bird guides put it on if there was a doubt. Ah well, back to the drawing board.
Thank god I was only 15 mins away, would have hated some birders to have travelled down any distance. Thanks for clarifying.
Matt
Footnote...this could still be a spotted then?? Nothing confirmed yet I take it?
Perhaps a consolation of sorts a common sandpiper in land in winter (not sure about the
coast) in derbyshire was classed as a rare winter visitor thou birds that were classed as
rare in recent times have been more classed as scarce visitors or passage migrants unclear
why this is perhaps more birdwatchers makeing more sightings, hope more proof comes
through for your claimed spotted sandpiper.
not with the tertial notches and tail length
Compare to this one
http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/PHOTO/LARGE/spotted_sandpiper_7.jpg
Damn it yes that was the bird, glad I held off ticking it in my funny book.
Surprised bird guides put it on if there was a doubt. Ah well, back to the drawing board.
Thank god I was only 15 mins away, would have hated some birders to have travelled down any distance. Thanks for clarifying.
Matt
Footnote...this could still be a spotted then?? Nothing confirmed yet I take it?
On the plus side, you'll now be that much better prepared for when a real Spotted Sandpiper comes your way. Hang on in there, it'll happen.
Cheers
James