News came through this morning from John Judge informing that Bob Hazell had located a Spotted Sandpiper off Draycote Bank, Draycote Water! (Well done Bob!). Further enquiries suggested the bird was constantly being flushed by boat fishermen and was becoming elusive. I decided not to go at this time, preferring to scrub the kitchen floor! However, a phone call late afternoon from Dennis Woodward informed me the bird had again been located so off I went. Parking in Draycote village, I raced at a slow pace up the hill to the valve tower, only to be met by an angry Lee Evans who told me the bird had been flushed to the visitor centre area. Birders on the bank suggested otherwise and we decided to search. The rain came and we got soaked, and we walked to the outlet but no joy. The birders split and I decided to walk back to the car. I'm glad I did! Between the inlet and valve tower was a small wader - Spotted Sandpiper! A life tick for me! I signalled to the other birders and eventually all were on the bird. A fishing boat was baring down on the bird, so I shouted at them to alter course - and they did!! A fantastic bird, together with a supporting cast of Whimbrel (year tick) and Dunlin, made getting soaked worthwhile! I hope you enjoy the following images.
Cracking bird to see Kevin, and some great pictures.
ReplyDeleteI remember the excitement of finding one at my local lake 3 years ago, almost to the day. :-)
Thank you. Always good to get onto a new bird! Even better on a local patch! Nearly didn't go for it! I wish I'd taken my 500mm but in my rush decided on my 400 5.6!
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