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.
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