Unfortunately most of the birds were roosting on the far side of the bay and I only got a good look at them when something over there frightened them and they all flew up. However, after circling overhead a couple of times they settled down over there again.
The only birds on my side of the bay were Red-capped Plovers (Charadrius ruficapillus). These birds are here all year but I never get tired of watching and photographing them. They are so tiny and so curious and will often come closer to watch me while I am watching them! I was focusing in on the male on the right hand side of the photo but when I looked at the photo I realized I had also photographed a female on the left hand side of the photo - even though she is a little out of focus.
This male came closer as I stood still watching him and eventually walked right past me.
Often other birds are less wary when they see the Red-capped Plovers running around quite close to me. This morning there were two Red-necked Stint (Calidris ruficollis) which were also walking through the shallow water. I don't know if these birds have stayed here all winter or if they have just arrived from the northern hemisphere.
Pity about the birds being so far away, there certainly looked like there was a lot of them.
ReplyDeleteThe blog looks great by the way.
Hi Mark, the birds on the other side always have to be viewed and counted with a spotting scope or else you have to go in with a kayak to get over where the birds are. This is one of the biggest roosting sites on the southern end of the Great Sandy Strait. Thanks re the blog.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful photos of the shorebirds in their habitat. I could watch them all day, too.
ReplyDeleteP.S. Thanks for the "anting" link.
Hi April, I agree they are interesting to watch - especially the small ones.
ReplyDeleteAll great shots of the shorebirds Mick! I really like the photo of both the male and female in one frame, it allows an easy comparison.
ReplyDeleteThe new blog theme is awesome! Nice and bright and easy to read. Good job!
Thanks Larry. Also thanks re the blog. I had some suggestions from a reader which set me searching for a less cluttered look on the page.
ReplyDelete...the Red-capped Plovers are so pretty! I usually only get to see plovers when I head south to Florida for vacation. I always love watching them too!
ReplyDeleteI like your shore birds. That's something I don't see down here.
ReplyDeleteThe Wingscapes camera is a lot of fun. I recommend one to anyone. :D
Thanks Kelly
ReplyDeleteHi Halcyon, I shall certainly be looking in to the Wingscapes camera. It looks like a lot of fun.
ReplyDeleteHi Mick
ReplyDeleteI was impressed by the huge flock of Waders.
But the cute Red-capped Plovers are great.
Denis
Hi Denis, as the season goes on I hope to get closer to those huge flocks of waders. Right now - when they have just arrived - they are still very easily frightened into flying off. They really need to eat and rest now.
ReplyDelete