Bird identification issues

An ornithological mystery

Has anyone else noted that a badly seen Oystercatcher whizzing past one’s telescope, coupled with a momentary lapse of concentration, can look like a Cape Petrel?

Sep 25th, 2009

3 lacklustre pieces of inspiration on “Bird identification issues”

  1. Consultant C Says:
    September 25th, 2009 at 1:44 pm

    Just try and remember which hemisphere you are in, there’s a good chap.

  2. A mild A mild mannered observer of birds Says:
    September 25th, 2009 at 1:48 pm

    The ocean region in which you currently reside can be a useful aid to knowing your onions, so to speak. Mind you, that said, I hear Tufted Puffins are on the move.

  3. Consultant G Says:
    September 28th, 2009 at 11:45 am

    Never noticed this myself. i would buy a new telescope if I were you. Consultant C is reminded that there are records of cape petrel from the northern hemisphere, so this top tip, while a reality check, will not eliminate the possibility.
    If you are a keen bird watcher, why not spend your time looking for slender-billed curlew (http://www.slenderbilledcurlew.net), or get to Orkney for the crane.

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