Submission No 256: Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius, Lake Bibra, Near Freemantle, WA 30-31 December 1998; Submitted by Frank O’Connor.

Verdict: Accepted

A record that involves the sighting of a plover on the east side of Lake Bibra approximately 10km south-east of Freemantle, WA 30 - 31st December 1998. Throughout this period the bird was seen by many ornithologists. It was also commented that this bird may have been the same individual as one seen at Kogolup swamp, Thompsons Lake and Forrestdale Lake some time earlier.

The observer has presented the committee with an ‘unusual record report form’ and additional supportive material has been provided in the form of field notes from Allan Burbidge and sketches by Judy Blyth. In summary the description supports the claimed identification detailing the size, lack of a noticeable wing bar, the presence of a pale collar, yellow eye ring, black bill and the yellow-orange leg colour. The combination of which rules out all similar species. It is also noteworthy that several observers have had previous experience with this species both overseas and in the Northern Territory of Australia.

The committee has no hesitation in accepting this record as Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius again most likely of the race curonicus, representing the 8th record for Australia to be accepted by the committee.

References and Bibliography:

• Carter, M.J. & D. Rogers. 1998. Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius: A Kimberley record with comments on morphological and vocal aspects of eastern populations. Australian Birdwatcher 17: 269-277.
• Hayman, P. et al. 1986. Shorebirds: An identification guide to the Waders of the World. Croom Helm. Sydney.

Tony Palliser
Chairman Birds Australia Rarities Committee (BARC)