The last time I went to Heybridge Basin was to photograph the Cuckoos that were feeding on the Brown-tail Moth caterpillars, but today the target was the Tundra Bean Goose that had been there for a few days. We parked next to the Chelmer and Blackwater Navigation and walked west along the sea wall. Although the tide was still a fair way out there were a few waders close by like this Redshank.
Out on the islands on the pit a small group of Black-tailed Godwits were having a well-earned rest with a few Teal. Others were having a wash and brush up and a spot of feeding. As the tide came in and covered the mud more godwits flew in, this pair seemingly practising for the 2020 Olympics Synchronised Flying event.
Out on the estuary three Knot flew in and were happy to swim around amongst the godwits, but not confident enough to come closer on to the mud. After a while they lost their nerve and flew off to Northey Island.
At that point a bird of prey must have flown through as all the Avocets went up, totally encircling a lone Black-tailed Godwit. Can you see it? Click on the photo to enlarge.
But now to the business in hand. All the geese, both Grey Lags and Canadas were at the northern end of the pit by the new houses, but distant. As we walked round the pit to get closer I heard a goose call that I did not know so lifted up my bins and soon found the lone Tundra Bean Goose swimming slowly towards an island in front of us. It hauled itself out and had a little walk round before joining the rest of the geese and going to sleep. Mission accomplished!!
Great images as always Alan, not seen a Bean Goose before, not sure I would've picked it out of a crowd! Like the Lark & Spoonbill on the Dorset posts, next time I go down there I'll do a bit of birding too! Great stuff!
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