By mid afternoon, the driving was taking its' toll, totally knackered and dreading the prospect of more miles down to the Lizard and an improbable Ortolan, a switch to plan 'B' for the rest of the afternoon was implemented.
'B' is for Baird's Sandpiper of course! We had scanned the beach on the journey down (to no avail) but now, armed with reliable information, we knew exactly where to look!
The Red river estuary mouth at Marazion has a huge patch of seaweed on the beach - loaded with flies and other insects galore - the patch was also buzzing with birds! After a 'Little Stint' false alarm (more of this bird later), we got onto the Baird's associating with a small Dunlin flock. With the tide rising, I waited patiently for the birds to move closer.......
Which they did! These birds are used to the antics of crazy people on the beach so me patiently waiting posed no threat!
I did say there were plenty of flies.....
Size comparison with a Dunlin......
Now where's that Little Stint......