Sandpipers & Plovers

Sandpiper

The Spotted Sandpiper Actitis macularia is the most common member of a large family of long-legged shorebirds.

They are commonly seen teetering about on beaches and salt marshes, although they may also be found in disused parking lots and other places. The breast is spotted only during the breeding season; in winter it is plain white.

Plovers are similar.


A regulator is usually among the first pieces of dive gear that a beginner will buy. Often, with a little help from your sales representative, you will be coaxed into buying much more in this department than you really need, and skimping or putting off purchases in other areas that would benefit you much more. This is a shame since much of the other gear you buy will make much more of a difference to you when you are actually in the water. Before you dismiss this statement as heresy, please consider my reasoning.