Lapwing – forty years ago in my nature notebooks

Forty years ago I spotted a Lapwing from the train. I remember train journeys as a child being extremely exciting; apart from the ham sandwiches on white bread with cloyingly thick warm butter. I saw Buzzards, a Sparrowhawk and numerous waders through the slow-moving train’s windows. Here’s the entry the 12 year old me made in my nature notebooks:

Chepstow seemed a perfect place for wildlife. The River Wye and the River Severn must mean it’s an oasis for wildlife. I’ve never been back.

Today I’m in Exminster in Devon looking at a Lapwing across the sodden fields. It’s far too far away, yet I’m still excited to see it.

I can recognise it by its size, shape and crest.

Here’s one close-up.