A Peedie Whaup
Eurasian Whimbrels are large waders, although they are not as large as Eurasian Curlews. As soon as I spot a group of mini-Curlews hidden in the long grass at Exminster Marshes, I call out, “Whimbrel!” They’re too hidden, and occupied with eating, to see clearly. The next evening they are spread out and clearly visible:
Whimbrel are also more delicate as well as being smaller than Curlew. Their call is like a Curlew’s but quieter, and less deep somehow.
And that bend in the beak? It’s just the tip which bends at a jaunty angle, not the whole beak, as in the Curlew. I’m not sure which species the local bike-racks are meant to be:
At home I check the name of the Whimbrel in Orcadian dialect. The name of the Curlew is Whaup, after its call. Whimbrel? It’s the Peedie Whaup. Peedie means small. Perfect.
Posts on Curlews
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