Migrant Ringed Plover

The day was overcast with rain and the occasional thunderstorm.  Coupled with an easterly breeze it looked  good for migrating waders and Terns.  Adam Bassett found three Black Terns about 7:30am and I had a look at these from the east bank about 9:00am after first having visited Marlow Low Grounds, which only held Little Ringed Plovers.

I decided to revisit the site late afternoon after Ringed Plover and two Redshank had been reported, with the hope that something else might also drop in.  As it happened a storm rolled in with thunder and heavy rain and no further migrants.  The Redshanks were present on the sand spit but distant however the Ringed Plover did move closer.  The Black Terns were still present along with about 40 Common Terns, most of which were trying to breed on the rafts.

Ringed Plover - Note the orange legs and bill (with black tip)

The Common Terns nesting on the new rafts.  Taken a few days earlier in brighter conditions.  About 11 sitting birds.