Batemans Bay-Cullendulla reserve query

["Philip Veerman" <>]

Hi Robin,

 

Certainly looks like an Eastern Curlew. I can't think of any reason why it wouldn't be one and does not fit any other possibility (except a very unlikely rare vagrant other species of Curlew). I can't pick the size but the best clue is the Eastern Curlew is the largest by far of the common migrant waders.

 

Philip

 

 

-----Original Message-----
From: Robin Hide [
Sent: Monday, 14 February 2011 5:36 PM
To: Canberra Birds
Subject: [canberrabirds] Batemans Bay-Cullendulla reserve query

On the low tide sands at Cullendulla reserve (on the north side of Batemans Bay) at midday, there were 2 at least Pied Oystercatchers, and 4 ??Curlews at very far range (and my shoes didnt warrant a wade to get closer).
This photo of one is very poor, but it does show the extreme length of the bill. Is Eastern Curlew a possibility?

Robin Hide