A Brief Visit to Ferrybridge

23rd July 2023

I timed my arrival to be mid-way between tides so that there was plenty of wet mud. Not a vast number of birds present but plenty of interest to keep me occupied for an hour or so. As I wandered through the salt-marsh vegetation I saw a few Linnets flying around and a rather colourful male landed close enough for a photo.

As at Lodmoor the Mediterranean Gulls were now present in good numbers and in various stages of moult.

I just love their white eyelids.

And at Ferrybridge there is always time for a bath after several hours feeding.

And when you are a juvenile Med Gull and have to stand around all day waiting to be fed, life can be very boring.

Today there were four species of wader present. About 10 Dunlin were scurrying around on the mud, a little distant but manageable, and luckily still in breeding plumage with that fabulous black belly.

There was also a pair of Oystercatchers with a well-grown youngster which was staying close to one of the adults and learning how to feed.

By far the most numerous of the waders was the Ringed Plover with their orange legs. I just love the way they run and the stop to pose for a photo.

But the stars of the show today were three Sanderlings still in breeding plumage. These two spent most of the time feeding together.

Well,what a fabulous way to spend an hour at one of my favorite spots in Dorset, and the next stop during our stay will be Portland Bill so watch this space.