Back from Alaska
The Koleas (Pacific Golden Plovers) are back from their summer breeding grounds in Alaska. This particular bird, of course, may have been born in Alaska, in which case he’s not back, he’s here for the first time. Being an early bird, one of the first arrivals, he had his choice of worm-hunting territory. If he inadvertently staked out an area belong to another bird, he’ll have to defend his claim or move on.
In April, I took some photos of a Kolea just before he left for Alaska. Same area, perhaps the same bird. In April, the Koleas had their formal black and white plumage, and were bulking up for the flight. In August, they’re wearing their casual feathers and are considerably thinner after the long flight. If you think airline food is bad, try migrating under your own power.
See: Kolea for the April photos.