Greater Yellowlegs

A leisurely drive over to Titchfield Haven for the long staying but easily dipped Greater Yellowlegs. Information at the visitor centre was that it had been seen everyday - wouldn't be a problem. The upshot was that if it hadn't been for one of the local birders I would have probably missed it. As it was, the views I had were distant and brief - at least I got a picture as evidence.

Not much of a picture - but a lifer for me.

 The bird flew north to the Posbrook area and seemingly remained there at least until early afternoon.

A Curlew Sandpiper approaching summer plumage was entertaining the visitors from the Meon hide, so I joined them and managed some nice records of a cracking bird in unusual garb.

Some of the Avocets have successfully hatched chicks and two were in attendance in front of the hide, the parents dutifully stood guard and, given how territorial Avocets are, it wasn't long before a dispute with a pair of Shelducks broke out.

Attentive parent.

Argumentative parent

 

With a keen westerly and the promise of rain it was time to go - not really any chance of some sunshine to make the Curlew Sandpiper really glow.