The Golden Plover
Golden Plover Pluvialis apricaria L 27. Breeds rather commonly in upland areas on moors, heathlands, bogs and peatlands, less common in south of range. On migration and in winter mostly on ploughed fields, meadows and pasture, permanent open grassland and occasionally mudflats, usually in compact flocks (can be very large), often with Lapwings. Flies rapidly and powerfully, on migration in blunt V formation. Northern populations in summer plumage are on average more contrasty and cleaner than the southern ones. Bath lack black below in winter. Juvenile is yellow-toned brown. The Golden Plover has discernible pale wingbars but no pale colour on tail/rump. White axillaries. Gives a monotone melancholy whistle at different pitches; 'peeh' and pluuh'. During display flight (stiff slaw-beating wings) a piping, melancholy, rhythmically pumping 'pleu-EEH-u, pleu-EEH-u. . .'. This often followed by a repetitive 'perPUUdya-perPUUrlya-. (normal flight; also heard on migration). RWP
An
excellent pocket reference book for recognising birds
is the Hamlyn Guide to Birds of Britain and Europe,
which is a comprehensive reference guide to Britain
and mainland Europe's plethora of ornithological life.
