Spring migration: not over yet!

01 Jun 2012 Dunlin and Ringed Plover by Adam Jones

Although most migrants have arrived or passed through by early June (with the exception of a few rare overshoots - see last week's update), some Arctic-breeding waders are still on the move. Small groups of migrant Dunlin and Ringed Plover (presumably mostly of the Russian-breeding race, tundrae) are not uncommon at this time of year, both on the coast and at wetland sites inland. The nesting habitat of these birds is usually under snow until late May, so it makes sense for them not to arrive back on their breeding grounds too early.



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