Attention-seekers
Waders. They’re either nearly invisible, clad in the most extreme camouflage possible, or they’re Oystercatchers.
This Oystercatcher was attempting to get my attention as I strayed onto its beach. There’s clearly a youngster or two nearby. The youngsters are also black and white, although a little scruffy. Despite that, I can’t see them anywhere.
Maybe there’s more to this black and white plumage business than I thought…
Also, have you seen that black smudge underneath the pupil on the red iris? It’s in the same place as the black smudge on the iris of a Woodpigeon, the one which makes its pupil look egg-shaped rather than circular. I wonder if it’s an anti-glare adaptation?