The common sandpiper is an occasional visitor to Falmer Pond. These small waders are quite shy and will fly off to a more sheltered part of the pond if disturbed. I was lucky today, and with care was able to get within a reasonable distance. Even so, these shots are from three different corners of the pond.
I think this next photo is the first I’ve managed of one up on the grass bank.
Just one other shot tonight. It’s a pretty portrait photo of a moorhen chick. It’s one of the first brood (I’m now satisfied that there are two broods on the pond).
Camera note: all photos taken with the Canon 7D and EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L USM IS lens.
dianecms
25 Apr 2014I love your posts. I’m sure I’ve seen you around Falmer Pond…one of my favourite places. It gives me calm en route from Windsor to my ailing mum near newhaven. Thank you for the beautiful photos.
Words
26 Apr 2014Diane, thanks for posting. I think we’ve probably spoken in the past. The pond is indeed a little hidden gem. So peaceful.
Darko
25 Apr 2014You can tell it is a cautious little bird, the way it looks and body posture shows it would like to be further away 😀
Words
26 Apr 2014Darko, this one was a little bolder than usual but would still take off if anything (including other birds) approached. It just flew from corner to corner. They are surprisingly small.
derwandersmann
23 May 2014Loved the sandpipers! My dad used to paint them a lot.
Words
24 May 2014dW, thanks! Cute birds. I’m always amazed at the skill needed to paint.