Second Pratincole of July

After a fairly relaxed trip to Bothal this afternoon which turned up an adult Black-necked Grebe, I wasn't expecting much more excitement. It looked to be that way until we heard that a Collared Pratincole had been found close to home at Castle Island. As soon as we heard the news we were on our way.
We arrived and there it was! There was still a bit of debate as to whether it was a Collared or Oriental, but soon everyone was certain it was an adult Collared Pratincole. After giving some great views on the ground it flew off north-west and out of sight.

About fifteen minutes later it returned and flew around, providing us with some superb flight views and photo opportunities. It even called briefly at one point.

Other birds at Castle Island included a Little Egret, 7 Black-tailed Godwits and at least one Common Sandpiper.

Collared Pratincole