Perrier Pictures

Oyster catchers, with heads bowed like mudlarks at low tide, search for treasure amongst the rocks and seaweed. Unexpectedly, an unusually excited ‘pip pipping’ sounds out as they turn towards each other.   

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The female elevates her tail, acquiescing.   The male hops onto her back, opening his wings for balance.  However, her tail has lowered.  He places his foot on her head, encouraging her to raise her rump once more.   Her tail up in the air, he moves back, into position.  They copulate.  

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Back on the ground, he shakes out his ruffled feathers with primal confidence.