THE BIRDS OF SOUTH GLOUCESTERSHIRE
BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPER - Tryngites subruficollis
As with all reports of rare and scarce birds they are subject to ratification by the respective rarities committees
Buff-breasted Sandpiper migrates mainly through central North America and is uncommon on the coasts. It occurs as a regular wanderer to western Europe and is no longer considered as rare in Great Britain where small flocks have occurred. Only the Pectoral Sandpiper is a more common American shorebird visitor to Europe.
There have been three Buff-breasted Sandpipers reported from S. Gloucestershire, they are;
1989: (1)
On September 30th one was found at New Passage, it was seen on the tide line with a mixed flock of small waders. This occurrence constitutes this first record of this species for S. Gloucestershire.
1990: (1)
An individual was located at Severn Beach on May 22nd and was still present on May 23rd.
2003: (1)
A juvenile/ 1st winter was found on September 27th at Northwick Warth and was present until September 30th.
Buff-breasted Sandpiper at Northwick Warth. September 2003. © Gary Thoburn.