Spotted Redshank with Avocet and Black tailed Godwits Mike Roser

1245—-1445  Given the news from Eden Park, it seemed appropriate to find an `all black` Spotted Redshank picking its way through static godwit opposition, and doing its own version of the Haka round the reedy flanks of the East flood. Ahead of some very uncompromising-looking weather, c 150 Swifts gyrated over the flood and beyond, with 2-3 Sand Martins, Swallows and a single House Martin as part of the melee. A Peregrine was again atop a pylon; a Cuckoo called briefly; Turtle Doves `purred` from the rear of the W flood, and 50 + Avocets were distinctly happier with the cattle ensconced westward. The Black–tailed Godwit flock is now widely spread—-very easy to take this sp for granted here —a range of plumages; flags and rings to decipher— and a rarity amongst them –soon?  No obvious sign of yesterday`s E flood Green Sandpiper—could now be a west-side story !  The Spoonbill was awaited by some for its daily commute.
Mike Roser