When to see
Turnstones are a winter visitor arriving back from their breeding grounds in late August. A group of around 40 will remain on the Bay until they depart once more in March. Occasionally, other groups from around the coast will come into the Bay boosting the numbers for short periods.
Where to see
Turnstones are one of the easiest waders to spot from Findhorn village as they will normally be foraging among the seaweed and stones on the shoreline either side of the piers. They are not easily disturbed which allows close up views of them from the path. At high tide they will frequently be seen roosting on the piers or concrete blocks just off the village.
Plumage
For most of the year we see them in their winter plumage – pale underneath and dark brown above. Just before they depart and also on their arrival back in August some will be seen in summer breeding plumage with patches of orange brown on their back, and black and white patterning on the head.
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