Black-Tailed Godwits in their Glorious Summer Plumage.
I took these pictures ten years ago from the RSPB’s Marshside hide on the coast of NW England.
This fantastic wetland site has great all-year viewing opportunities, although, sadly and in line with necessary COVID-19 restrictions, the hides are currently out of use.
On this particular day in 2010, the Black-Tailed Godwits were displaying well. It’s the only time I’ve managed to photograph them in summer plumage AND in sunshine.
Whilst only around 50 pairs breed in the UK, we regularly get over 40,000 birds from Iceland to winter in this country.
You know that when their summer plumage is at its most magnificent, that it is time for them to return home to their breeding grounds.
These pictures were taken mid-April and I reckon that I just got there in time with my binoculars and camera before they headed off northwards.
If I see any over the next few months in their plain, brown, winter plumage, I will be looking forward to seeing them in all their glory next Spring.
With thanks to Lisa for her Weekly Bird Challenge: Long-Legged Birds.
4 Comments
Lisa Coleman · 14 November 2020 at 05:01
These are super fantastic! Talk about being at the right place at the right time! I know this was an extraordinary day for you and I was getting excited for you, even if it was 10 years ago. Thanks for sharing! 🙂
M.B. Henry · 13 November 2020 at 22:33
Lovely photos!
XingfuMama · 13 November 2020 at 20:35
Gorgeous pictures of a gorgeous bird.
Helen Bushe · 13 November 2020 at 20:37
Thank you. They are amazing birds! I’m glad you like them too.