Small, dumpy and short-legged

The RSPB says, “The ringed plover is a small, dumpy, short-legged wading bird.” Read more. That’s not very complimentary, is it? I think they’re incredibly elegant and very beautiful, but then beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

Ringed Plover - The Hall of Einar - photograph (c) David Bailey

It’s on Mae Sands, and so am I, lying face down in wet sand with the sounds of waves breaking in my ears.

Ringed Plover - The Hall of Einar - photograph (c) David Bailey

It’s pottering along the tideline, making the occasional enthusiastic rush for a patch of wet sand.

Ringed Plover - The Hall of Einar - photograph (c) David Bailey

I can’t see what it’s doing. All the birds here seem so preoccupied with feeding, but I can’t see what they’re interested in. There must be something delicious here being rolled by the waves and abandoned or disturbed on the shore.

Ringed Plover - The Hall of Einar - photograph (c) David Bailey

Then I see it; this Ringed Plover has a sand shrimp firmly between its jaws. Fabulous.

Ringed Plover - The Hall of Einar - photograph (c) David Bailey

There’s a Ruddy Turnstone joining in what I can’t refer to as a feeding frenzy, more afternoon tea amongst old friends.

Ringed Plover - The Hall of Einar - photograph (c) David Bailey

They have a real dignity and poise.

Ringed Plover - The Hall of Einar - photograph (c) David Bailey

The light is beginning to disappear now, and I’ve got a very wet leg after misjudging one of the larger waves.

Ringed Plover - The Hall of Einar - photograph (c) David Bailey

It’s time for me to leave them to forage along the strand.

Ringed Plover - The Hall of Einar - photograph (c) David Bailey

Small, dumpy and short-legged, indeed.

Ringed Plover - The Hall of Einar - photograph (c) David Bailey

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