White-winged Black Tern
Chlidonias leucopterus
Welland Bank Gravel Pits, Lincolnshire

Originally identified as a Black Tern mid-morning, it was 're-found' and identified correctly early afternoon by local birder Kevin Durose. I was sat in a BOURC meeting at Egleton, Rutland, blissfully unaware of the bird's presence! Leaving the meeting, I turned my mobile back on to find endless messages about it.

An anxious hour was spent dropping people off at Peterborough train station then heading up to WBP, where I eventually enjoyed stunning views of the bird feeding on one of the pits. These photos are of the bird sat somewhat distantly on one of the small islands.

This is the third record for the Peterborough Bird Club area.

12 July 2003

Nikon Coolpix 995 + Leica APO Televid 77 with 32xWA

© Steve Dudley

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