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within our sight, but the most obvious
distinguishing feature between the species,
the Little Ringed Plover's lack of a wing
bar when in flight, could be clearly seen.
It was unusual to see such a large party of
this normally rather solitary bird.
Lighter entertainment was provided by a
'gourmet' Tern making many attempts to
swallow a fish much larger than would be
its normal diet. Also of interest was
a Great Crested Grebe with its brood of
markedly 'striped' youngsters. Amongst
the other species seen were Whitethroat,
Sedge Warbler, Turtle Dove, Greenshank,
Common Sandpiper and Turnstone.
The area was much less productive in
butterflies than last year, but then the
day was cloudy and this summer as a whole
has not been a good one for several species,
Nevertheless, this is a convenient venue
where the varying habitat available within
a short distance can be relied upon to
provide plenty of interest.
JOHN BATH
BIRD GROUP MEETING. BRADWELL BIRD
OBSERVATORY, 8TH SEPTEMBER, 1985
Eighteen members arrived at the meeting point
at 11.00 a.m. To begin with the day was
overcast with little sunshine to start off
the meeting. On our way to meet our joint
leader,Graham Smith, we saw two Whinchats -