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 Turnstone
Arenaria interpres L 23. Breeds on bare rocky,
stony coast, also on shore meadows with boulders.
On migration and in winter also found on sandbanks,
mudflats and among seaweed, usually in small
numbers. Unusual inland. Large as a Knot. Unmistakable
black, white and variegated red-brown pattern
in summer plumage. When a pair is seen together
at breeding site, male is distinguished by slightly
brighter colours. Winter plumage is considerably
duller in coloration, blackish-grey and whitish.
Juvenile like adult in winter plumage but has
evenly buff-edged feathers above and also is
finely spotted grey-brown on breast, not sooty-black.
Feeds at water's edge, roots about, turns over
stones and seaweed by pushing with bill or head.
Sits guard on elevated rocks, gives alarm with
strident, shrill accelerating series of notes:
'KYE-hwee-KYE-hwee-kyewee-wetetetetet'. Other
calls include short 'kew' and chuckling 'tuk-e-tuk'.
WP
 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.
Buy
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