Everyone welcomes the arrival of summer migrants - swallows, cuckoos, warblers - but common sandpipers are barely noticed, which is a pity because they are such a charming feature of our northern riverbanks.
They may be common and their plumage colours are muted but they are delightful little waders. This one was feeding on the margin of Tunstall reservoir, near Wolsingham in Weardale.
When they're not feeding along the water margin they tend to perch on boulders on the edge and bob up and down - behaviour known as 'teetering'. I usually don't spot them until they fly, with those distinctive fast, shallow wing beats and three-note alarm call.
I too like these but they always see me before I see them.
ReplyDeleteI looked over the wall and there it was - lucky!
DeleteNever seen one at all. I am jealous.
ReplyDeleteAlways look forward to seeing and hearing them along the upper reaches of the rivers Wear and Tees in summer
DeleteLovely. Not seen them before (or maybe I have and not known it).
ReplyDeleteeasy to miss - their colour scheme hides them well
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ReplyDeleteAmazing how common experience can cross continents!
DeleteI have seen the sandpipers oor their relatives near Mumbai. Their colour gives them protection from stray dogs.
ReplyDeleteThey seem to be a species with a very wide geographical range!
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