Dotterel
(Charadrius morinellus)

Eight birds found by Jeff Delve, Wallasea Island 25th April 2009

This medium-sized member of the plover family is unusual in that the adult female is brighter than the male - an indication of their role-reversal in raising the young. Adults have largely grey-brown upperparts and bright chestnut belly, with a white chest band, throat and eye stripe, the latter contrasting with a dark cap. On spring migration they are often seen in groups, or 'trips', at traditional stopping places.

In summer found only on Scotland's high tops. Best looked for on spring and autumn migration. Spring groups are usually seen at traditional stopping points, especially in Eastern England.

They arrive from mid-April to mid-May and leave breeding areas in July and August. Autumn passage birds are usually seen in August and September. The eight birds on Wallasea unfortunately only stayed for one day.

They eat insects and worms.

Dotterel, Wallasea Island. 25th April 2009. Photo by Martin Cracknell.

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