A snap decision this afternoon to re-visit Salgados (Pera Marsh), only to see if I could find the Sociable Lapwing.
Although there haven't been reports for a couple of days, I was optimistic that it could still be around and was keen to see the Lapwing again being an incredible rarity for me, as well as the Algarve. The fields where the Lapwings had been feeding previously held only Meadow Pipits, Thekla Larks and 2 Hoopoes. A quick inspection of the marsh showed a flock of Lapwings on the water's edge. It was going to be a case of waiting for a harrier to put the birds up, and see if the Sociable was among them. Several passes were made by two Marsh Harriers and a number of Lapwings took to the air, two Golden Plover were seen and a Common Snipe. In the swirl of gulls, Teal, Avocets and everything else, it wasn't an easy task. Surprisingly, as I was packing up and had put the camera away in the car, the Lapwings alone took off and flew North to a distant field. I was alerted by their calls and a scan of the loose flock showed the Sociable Lapwing to be there. As I had previously seen the bird on the ground, I was now able to see the black wing tips and grey mantle, together with the black band on uppertail. The contrasting colours in flight make it a spectacular plover and I was delighted to have the chance to see it again. Comments are closed.
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