OUR COASTAL TREASURE
Sandbanks in the Kromme River Estuary
(Walk on Shore Road towards The Cove)
Sandbanks are the place to see waders and terns. Some can be seen all year round but most of them are summer visitors.
Waders
Waders are seen feeding whilst walking around on the muddy flats at low tide. The lengths of their bills differ according to the type of food they eat. This allows them to feed close together without competing.
White-fronted Plover
A small, dainty bird, buffy coloured with a white forehead (front), the black eye stripe connecting to the dark bill; often seen in pairs or little groups running over the sand.
Sanderling
Greyer than the White-fronted Plover, often seen in little groups. When feeding they look as though they are sewing little stiches in the sand.
Ruddy Turnstone
A darker, orangey bird with red legs, which has a habit of turning over stones to search for food.
Terns
Terns fish for their food and are often seen in large, active, fast-turning flocks.
Groups of them regularly rest on the sandy banks amongst the waders.
Look out for the other bird species that frequent this area.
Black Oystercatcher
A medium-sized black bird with bright red legs and bill. This bird makes a lovely kleep, kleepa call. A conservation success story!
Kelp gull
The quintessential “seagull”; bright white and black plumage and a strong, yellow bill with a red tip.