Microbirdology

Purple Heron A juvenile bird was reported on the River Cam near Kingfisher Bridge NR.  This species is slightly smaller and slenderer than the grey heron, they have chestnut-brown plumage with dark streaks and a long, sinuous neck. These secretive birds prefer reedbeds and wetlands and are more often heard than seen. While traditionally passage migrants or occasional breeders, recent conservation efforts have seen small numbers attempting to nest in southern England. I had no expectations of actually finding the bird, especially as I seemed to be the only one looking. Amazingly I spotted the bird on the opposite bank after a short walk and the timing was perfect, as a passing boat flushed 60 seconds later.    The bird was lost to view but reported the following day in the Mere at Kingsfisher Bridge NR.   Black Stork A juvenile bird was reported repeatedly for about a week at Boyton Marsh, Suffolk. This species is typically found in continental Europe and Asia, ne...

  Amazona Zoo in Cromer, Norfolk, is a small 'family' zoo with South American wildlife, including jaguar, monkeys, snakes, ocelot, pumas, flamingo, tapir, caiman and a variety of birds. Mara (rodents) roam free during opening hours! It was tricky to get good shots through the mesh cages. Amazon parrots Greater Rhea Chilean Flamingo Fulvous whistling Duck Scarlet Ibis Red legged Seriema Black necked Swan Jaguar Caiman

Kingfishers at Sculthorpe Moor NR and RSPB Lakenheath, July 2025 There are more Kingfishers around in July, as the first broods are forced out of the parental nests to find their own food and territories. Sculthorpe Moor The water level on the scrape was rather low and there did not seem to be much small fish 'activity' visible. The bird sat on the stick for a while but made no attempt to feed. RSPB Lakenheath Two birds reported to be feeding, although I only saw one while in the Mere hide.

Our second visit to Bempton Cliffs. Last year we were a month earlier and were lucky enough to see a Short-eared Owl and a Barn Owl in the fields.  No such luck this year, but the cliffs were chock-a-block with sea birds. Gannet Gannets are large, striking seabirds found along the UK’s coasts, especially in Scotland, where they breed in huge colonies on cliffs and offshore islands. The Northern Gannet, known for its white plumage, black wingtips, and long, pointed wings. They are expert divers, plunging into the sea from great heights to catch fish. The UK hosts around 60% of the world’s Northern Gannet population, with major colonies at Bass Rock, St Kilda, and Bempton Cliffs.  Kittiwake Kittiwakes are delicate-looking, ocean-loving gulls found around the UK’s coasts, especially at seabird colonies like Bempton Cliffs in East Yorkshire. Easily recognised by their crisp white bodies, grey wings, and distinctive black wingtips, they have a gentle “kitti-wake” call that gives th...