Booted Eagle, Red billed Chough and Glossy Ibis, Cornwall, mid Jan 2025

Booted Eagles (Hieraaetus pennatus) are sometimes seen in the UK as rare vagrants, primarily due to their migratory behavior. These medium-sized birds of prey typically breed in southern Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia, migrating to sub-Saharan Africa for the winter. Occasionally, individuals stray northward due to navigation errors, strong winds, or dispersal of young birds exploring new territories. Climate change and shifting migration patterns may also contribute to their occasional presence in the UK. Sightings remain rare but are increasing, particularly along the southern coast.

This individual has been in the South West for several weeks. We headed off with limited expectations of spotting the bird but were lucky enough to catch sight of it twice. The light was very poor and the bird was reasonably distant but the pictures were clear enough to identify the bird.  The other birders pointing it out, was added confirmation that we had the right bird!

Red-billed choughs (Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax) are a distinctive species of crow with glossy black plumage and striking red legs and bills. They were once widespread in the UK but became extinct in Cornwall in the late 20th century due to habitat loss and persecution. However, in 2001, a small group naturally recolonized the Cornish coast, likely from Ireland or Wales. Conservation efforts, including habitat management and protection, have helped the population grow. Today, the red-billed chough is a symbol of Cornwall’s wildlife heritage, often seen along its rugged coastal cliffs.

We found several birds on the grass slopes surrounding the Land's End tourist buildings.

Glossy Ibis (Plegadis falcinellus) are increasingly being seen in the UK, though it remains a scarce visitor. Historically a rare vagrant, sightings have become more frequent in recent years, likely due to climate change and shifting migratory patterns. Native to southern Europe, Africa, and Asia, Glossy Ibises are highly nomadic and often disperse in response to changing water levels in their wetland habitats. They are typically spotted in marshes, estuaries, and wet grasslands, particularly in southern and eastern England. Occasional breeding attempts have also been recorded, suggesting a potential future range expansion.

This individual was showing well at RSPB Marazion Marsh.