Migrating Waders - the new arrivals - July 2021

Recently I have an opportunity to witness the first arrivals of migrating waders to our shoreline. Prior to my survey on 23 July 2021 at the mudflats of Kota Kuala Muda, the local folks informed that they have not seen any birds on the beach since two months ago. I have been lucky this time I think. The numbers were not many - i.e approx about 300 only. These numbers subsequently increased to about 900 + after a second survey conducted by Dr. Nur Munira on 27 July. More arrivals would be expected soon.

I think many people out there are still unsure of the meaning of waders/shorebirds. So here is my own interpretation of the definition.

The definition of wader

I believe the term wader can’t be described in one single sentence. Generally the term can be summarised as follows:

“Waders are a group of birds, commonly found wading along the shorelines or intertidal mudflats (at times inlands as well). During migration, they are often seen in dense flocks. Waders are closely RELATED* to skuas, gulls, terns and auks. (*note the word “related” which is not definitely and also these words – “shoreline”, “mudflats”, “migration” and “dense flocks”). The term "wader" is used in UK while "shorebird" is usually called in North America."

According to Oxford dictionary –

British term – a wading bird of the order Charadriiformes, which comprises the sandpipers, plovers and related birds

American term – a wading bird of the order Ciconiiformes, which comprises the herons, storks, and ibises.

Over here, we follow the British term.

Majority of them were Lesser Sand Plovers and Red-Necked Stints

Despite arriving there in the morning and it was a bright sunny day, most of the waders were at the edge of the tidal waves (gigi air) - quite a distance away. 

I noticed that the Red Necked Stint (RNS) were always on the forefront in a flock. 

Majority of them (RNS) are in these colors (winter plumage)

One of the best find - a Sanderling ! Reported to breed as far as the Arctic tundra region.

The next abundant waders were the Curlew Sandpipers.

Most of them were in their breeding plumage.

The above marked bird was identified by experienced birders as a RNS. I initially thought it was a Broad-billed Sandpiper.

Two Great Knots were spotted among the Whimbrels and Common Redshanks.

This was one of a few Terek Sandpipers seen here.

There were pockets of Common Redshanks scattered here and there. The above photo was taken at almost noon time. Note the water level which have steadily increased. I have also realised that if it's a full moon you will most likely experienced the tides rising and receding at a faster rate (my personal observation). 

The local folks informed that the last time they saw some waders were a flock of large waders which probably were these Whimbrels.

This was the only RNS with a partial breeding plumage.

A zorro-masked Lesser Sand Plover (LSP)

Another zorro-masked LSP

Bar-tailed Godwits were there too.

More Curlew SPs and a lone Whiskered Tern

Just wonder why there are some waders which have deeper red colors than the rest of other waders like for example the LSPs.

A closer look

A mix flock of waders

You can see the various plumage of LSPs here (above photo)

Another group of LSPs 

The above wader was identified by Dave Bakewell as a Grey Plover / Black-bellied Plover. Another surprising find.

Lastly a single Gull-billed Tern (far left) was also spotted among the waders.

I have also came across this signage. Very good effort by the authorities but once awhile they will still need to test it to see whether it is functioning properly.

Here are some other birds seen nearby.

A cattle egret was seen foraging at a small patch of marshland.

Many people (including close friends and loved ones) have succumbed to this deadly C-9 pandemic. It's a great tragedy for the human race. Will it be something which we will have to live-by like the common flu in the near future ? Hope not ! (i.e unless a more effective vaccine are found).

It's time for scientist and virologist / biologist etc to rise and shine and find a cure for this pandemic irregardless of where it came from.