Black-throated Diver at Carnsew Pool, Hayle

Black-throated Diver is a regular winter visitor to Cornwall, mainly frequenting the sheltered bays between St Austell and Falmouth.  A maximum count so far this winter is 47 in Gerrans Bay in December.  When news of a single bird was present at Carnsew Pool this week, my interest was heightened as the species is decidedly uncommon on the north coast. Indeed, according to local supremo Laurie Williams, Carnsew has hosted Black-throated Diver just three times.  This is also the first time I have photographed the species at relatively close quarters.

Below is a shot I took this afternoon.