The Bairds Sandpiper was reported today at 13.24 hrs as having been seen at 11.10 hrs.
The bird was in the same spot as Doc mentions below, quite distant when viewed from the gap in the hedge by the roadside. Still associating with the Ringed Plover but decent scope views were had. I watched it for ten or fifteen minutes before it ventured further left and promptly disappeared from view behind a series of sandy mounds by the edge of the pool. Quite easy to understand how it was thought to have left yesterday. I didnt see it again despite moving up and down the road to try and get a better view.
Also around were 53 Lesser Black-backed Gull, 3 Pied Wagtail, 14 Lapwing, a Meadow Pipit, several Rook, a small flock of Starling and a few Linnet.
Called here Sunday 20th, after visiting Leasowe for the Storm Petrels. The bird was associating with the Ringed Plover for most of the time, except when harried by a Pied Wagtail which helpfully drove it further back from behind the near line of earth. Large flock of Linnets also feeding along that side of the pool, with at least 2 Greenfinches mixed in; good size group of Lesser Black-backed Gulls (uncounted) at the back of the pool, Raven over, and a dozen Swallows. Attached photos courtesy of Riggers
-- Edited by Mike Chorley on Wednesday 23rd of September 2026 09:35:59 AM
I made a rare trip 'off patch' to Burleydam Pool, 3ml WSW of Audlem (parking on Lodmore Lane).
The Baird's Sandpiper was again on the near shore when viewed from the verge of the road, no access to the field which is private. It fed along a short section with the Ringed Plover, conveniently opposite the gap in the hedge! What was inconvenient was that I was there in strong afternoon sunshine and viewing was into the sun! Through a scope this wasn't a problem with superb views, but for photos it was very problematical. No-one reported getting perfect shots whilst I was there but I managed the record shots that I wanted! The first was with my phone so that I could broadcast it straight away from in the field, the second is a digiscoped camera shot. Whilst I was there around 10 other birders came and went, including a couple from Nottingham! Reports on RBA this evening are that it was not seen 6.40-7.20pm, which is the last report for today.
-- Edited by Doc Brewster on Monday 21st of September 2026 11:05:38 PM
A new site for me between Nantwich and Whitchurch today. 11:30-12:30
Main reason was to see the adult Baird's Sandpiper which didn't disappoint, on bank near to road, associating with a Ringed Plover mostly. Record shot attached. Sizeable crowd present.
Also 1+ Ruff, 15 Lapwing, 8 Teal, Raven, 20+ Linnet.
