Strange wagtail, Santorini, Greece (1 Viewer)

[Wiganlad]

This soggy chap dropped into our hotel pool on 12 June this year in Santorini. He seems a bit dark for a White Wagtail (despite the soaking) but well out of his way to be a Pied. Plus, some very odd growths or spurs on his legs. Any thoughts very much appreciated.

 

[01101001]

some very odd growths or spurs on his legs

Wildlife Poaching - Archipelagos

We work against keeping wild birds in cages, struggle to prevent poaching endangered animals such as chameleons and help catching the poachers.

archipelago.gr

(?)

 

[Wiganlad]

Wildlife Poaching - Archipelagos

We work against keeping wild birds in cages, struggle to prevent poaching endangered animals such as chameleons and help catching the poachers.

archipelago.gr

(?)

Are you suggesting this is an escapee from a cage?

 

[Butty]

some very odd growths or spurs on his legs

Saltpans nearby?

 

[Wiganlad]

Sorry to have been absent for a while. Thanks to the responders so far. There may be some saltpans on Santorini. Does that make the odd growths possibly salt stuck to its legs? Anyone able to confirm it is a White Wagtail rather than a very of-course Pied?

 

[Richard Prior]

Sorry to have been absent for a while. Thanks to the responders so far. There may be some saltpans on Santorini. Does that make the odd growths possibly salt stuck to its legs? Anyone able to confirm it is a White Wagtail rather than a very of-course Pied?

Despite the poor condition of the plumage we can see the grey mantle of a White Wagtail.

 

[Wiganlad]

Many thanks Richard. Looks like the little chap had had a rough ride!

 

[Butty]

we can see the grey mantle of a White Wagtai

Not that we would wish to encourage people to think that every white/pied wagtail with grey on the upperparts is a white wagtail.

 

[Richard Prior]

Not that we would wish to encourage people to think that every white/pied wagtail with grey on the upperparts is a white wagtail.

Yes you’re quite right, I think this bird (despite the grotty plumage) is pale grey enough though, I wonder if Pied has ever been recorded down that way, someone will hopefully know.