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We burned up some frequent flyer points on a
weekend dash to Taree and Ash Island.
We found the Kentish Plover at 2.30 pm
Sunday 24th February, about 3 hours before high tide, feeding and loafing
with Red-capped Plovers (and other waders) on a large sand-bar on the inlet
(west) side of the Little Tern colony. This sandbar
is directly opposite the high tide roosting site, marked by the pink cup.
The latter is about 1 km along the fence, as you walk in from the carpark. To
see it on the sandbar requires a scope. It frustratingly sheltered from the wind
in little "holes" in the sand or behind tiny sand hummocks, and so
was invisible at those times. Very careful searching is required in
this location.
At just after 5 pm, almost on the full tide, it
flew right over the tern colony area and landed at the high tide roosting area
on the ocean side. We raced around there and had excellent views until
after 6 pm, though I constantly lost and relocated it as it disappeared down 4WD
ruts, behind sandhills etc. It was in company with about 10 Redcapped
Plover, Red-necked Stints (2) and Double-Banded Plover (2). The complete
white collar is very obvious. Close to Redcapped Plovers, it can be
seen to be slightly larger, and the bill is slightly thicker and
longer.
The next day 25th February we drove down to
Hexham and, after an hour of searching, found a male Yellow Wagtail
in breeding plumage on the causeway at the exact spot reported by Bob Way in his
recent posting. It was our first trip to Ash Island - a great spot.
Mosquito repellent is recommended!
All in all, a great weekend's birding.
Cheers
Neville
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