A first winter Sociable Lapwing was found yesterday among a small Lapwing flock, in the fields to the North of the marsh. I set out at first light to look for this Siberian visitor, making its extraordinary route to Africa no doubt. Lapwings were found in most of the fields, often as single birds and no real flocks except for a group on the lagoon side. I spent hours looking for the Sociable Lapwing and the time enabled me to find a Richard's Pipit which was pleasing, together with seeing all the Glossy Ibis arrive. The marsh held some Ruff and a couple of Avocets, good numbers of Common Snipe and Pintail numbers are increasing. Two Caspian Terns were flying over the lagoon for most of the morning. It wasn't until mid-afternoon when Colin Bradford and his wife searched a different field and thankfully, found the Sociable Lapwing. On the bare earth of the field (and at some distance), the lapwing was surprisingly well camouflaged, particularly from a rear view. First impression was more like grey plover/dotterel, until the white over the eye became clear and the long black legs could be seen. Even though I had looked in Collins Guide, this bird was between juvenile and adult and did not appear as an illustration. It was a very smart plover and became the fourth addition to my life list, this Winter. (Sociable Lapwing, Ruppell's Vulture, Lesser Spotted Eagle, Eagle Owl).
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