These days we are witnessing the arrival of the first groups of several species of waders that have approached up to Urdaibai after having bred in areas of the North of Europe. Among the species that we can see in the wetland of Gautegiz Arteaga, the largest groups are Greenshanks (Tringa nebularia), Green Sandpipers (Tringa ochropus), Common Sandpipers (Actitis hypoleucos), Common Redshanks (Tringa totanus). The other species, that has not disappoint us, is the Ruff (Philomachus pugnax) that has occupied the feeding areas next to the small islands.
Common Redshanks and Greenshanks on a little island of the marshes.
In the same way, the first Little Stints (Calidris minuta) have just arrived, as well as some adult Dunlins (Calidris alpina) that precede the juveniles that soon will be seen in the Cantabrian estuaries.
Dunlins with a Common Greenshank resting on the marshes
On the other hand, during this summer the records of several specimen of Northern Lapwing (Vanellus vanellus) had been registered so that, it is confirmed the fact that they do not wait until winter to come to Urdaibai; they are probably dispersing juveniles.
And of course, we have also enjoyed the presence of several Little Ringed Plover (Charadrius dubius) feeding for going on with the journey to their wintering areas in Africa.
Finally, it can be described as pleasant surprise the more and more regular presence of the elusive Wood Sandpiper (Tringa glareola), what confirm the marshes of Gautegiz Arteaga, as a fantastic place to watch this species.
Wood sandpiper
In short, almost overlapped with the breeding period, the marshes present an excellent appearance for anyone who wants to enjoy watching waders in migration.
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