Non Breeding Grey Plover Katihiku Estuary

[Wrybill]

This afternoon i saw a Non Breeding Grey PLover at the Katihiku estuary in the pouring rain 2 pacific golden plover were also present see link at bottom of post to ebird checklist Notes : Much larger than Pacific golden plover, Very pale speckled grey and white head, upper parts and breast also white underparts, black armpits Noticeable more so in flight. Thin white wingbar also white rump and barred like tail

I hope this is a true sighting but If someone can prove otherwise that would be great

Link to ebird checklist https://ebird.org/newzealand/checklist/S122756216

Link to Katihiku estuary ebird hotspot https://ebird.org/newzealand/hotspot/L20254115

[Michael Szabo]

Did you get any photos please?

[Wrybill]

Sadly yet again no but the camera is being fixed should be ready by mid december early january.

[sjacques]

Hi Saul,

If you have a smartphone you can take a 'proof of life' record shot simply by holding the camera up to the lens of a scope, or even binoculars.

Attached is one I took of a pectoral sandpiper down here in Southland the other day. Zoom in and you can clearly see the bird in the middle of the shot, to the right of the grey teal.

Won't win any wildlife photography awards, but even at that scale and resolution it shows some of the diagnostic features (particularly in this case the sharp contrast between densely streaked breast and clean belly).

A useful tool to have up your sleeve (or in your pocket),

Cheers,
Sean

[AlfieB77]

How do you access the katihiku estuary? (Have been wanting to go for some time)

[Wrybill]

Alfie you need to view it from the north side of the river a bit tricky without binos or you park your car on the south side otaki river bridge of State highway one and walk up the stopbank.

We view from otaki river mouth as it saves time.

[Wrybill]

Sean Thanks for the tip will try to get photo if still there on weekend i will try on saturday or sunday.

[Wrybill]

I have submitted a UBR for this bird.

[Wrybill]

I am Heading out this morning 10:30-maybe 12 im not sure.

[Wrybill]

Seen this morning between 10 30 and 11 black armpit very clear with the same two pacific golden plovers
Other Migrant wader
Turnstone 6
Bar Tailed Godwit 46
Lesser knot 20