First arrival

Of course, I don't actually and incontrovertibly know that this is the first kuaka to arrive from Siberia or Alaska. Here at Snells Beach, or in New Zealand. All I do know is that this is the first one I have seen since the departure in March and April. I didn't see any others this morning.

It is certainly much thinner than they look when they leave to head north in Autumn. It was also readily chased off. By a toreapango (variable oystercatcher), at which time it flew well away north along the beach. Earlier, a little tuturiwhatu (dotterel) had run towards it and it spread its wings (see the extra) to move a little distance away. It is likely to be quite fatigued after the long flight and the weight loss.