18/10/2025 Rutland Water Reservoir, Oakham

Baird's Sandpiper: Today I finally caught up with a bird that should already be on my life list, and one I have dipped several times. 

In a way I am glad I had dipped all the past birds, as it gave me a chance to see this individual which showed incredibly well.

Baird's Sandpiper is a rare vagrant in the UK, originating from North America, which arrives in the UK due to strong winds and weather patterns, not its natural migration route. The low water levels continue at Rutland exposing brilliant foraging habitat for small waders.

Baird's sandpipers can be tricky to distinguish from other small waders. Key features include its long wings that extend beyond the tail, a dark brown back and head with streaking, white underparts with a dark breast band, black legs, and a dark bill. 

They are slightly smaller than a dunlin, with long wings that project beyond the tail, giving a horizontal impression when it feeds. 

This was one of the best birding experiences of the year, watching this small, rare wader stroll right past me, just a few feet away was incredible. 

I could have picked  it up, it was that close!

06/09/2025 Rutland Water Reservoir, Oakham

Grey Phalarope: A juvenile Baird's Sandpiper was sighted at Eyebrook Reservoir this is not only an uncommon visitor from North America, but a lifer for me, after dipping a few in the past. 

So, I decided to drive down on Saturday, leaving very early to get there for first light. However my bad luck with Baird's continued and the bird did a bunk over night.

As a consolation I went across to to Rutland water to see the long staying grey phal. Low water levels at Rutland Water caused by recent hot weather have exposed previously submerged parts of the old landscape, which has been a real draw for waders. 

They are a rare inland sighting, grey phalaropes are usually seen along the coast, so their appearance at Rutland Water is considered a rare and exciting event.  Like other birds that appear inland, this individual was likely blown off course by strong winds during migration. 

The bird was observed swimming and feeding fearlessly, even close to people, and was seen eating bloodworms and zebra mussels. 

These smart little birds never fail to fulfil the hopes or expectations of a having a good birding experience. Confiding, bold and photogenic they are great, definitely a nice consolation after dipping the  Baird's.