more mystery birds

[Madz]

Originally Posted by RobSutton

The other thing which really stands out with Grey Plover is the size of the eye and a very upright stance. I think even on your photo the eye would stand out as a dark blob. I'd be happy with unknown - either Knot or Dunlin probably.

Thanks Rob, that's really helpful.

[aeshna5]

Originally Posted by Madz

Thanks John

LOL, I looked up 'giss' on the on-line-dictionary but it wasn't there, so guessed it was some kind of birding jargon.

BTW I wasn't doubting anyone's expertise in the question about the plover- just wanted to learn. I'm naturally curious. I do have field guides and I do use the internet searches but like you say some knowledge is only acquired through years of experience. I think forums like this are great places to learn. We can all benefit from each others expertise.

There have been a lot of contributions in this thread. I shall have to take time out now to digest it.

Thanks again to you and to everyone who has helped.

Madz

Madz, it's not spelt like that but jizz, a term naturalists use to ID something on it's general appearance/behaviour without seeing all the detail, so requires a certain amount of experience. One possible derivation of word is from military parlance: GISS-General Impression of Size + Shape.