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英国和欧洲鸟类图鉴
英国和欧洲鸟类图鉴
BIRDS
OF BRITAIN AND EUROPE
COMPLETE
BIRDS
OF BRITAIN AND EUROPE
Rob Hume
DORLING KINDERSLEY
LONDON, NEW YORK, MUNICH,
MELBOURNE, AND DELHI
This means related birds appear coded for each family. blackish
rump
on wings
black bac
together, with a group introduction. greyer back
than male’s
COMMON NAME MALE
PIPITS AND WAGTAILS (SUMMER)
Family Motacillidae FEMALE
IN FLIGHT (PIED)
PIPITS AND WAGTAILS
Illustrations show the bird in
W HILE SIMILAR TO LARKS, these are
smaller, slimmer birds with longer tails
and a more steeply undulating flight.They lack
flight, from above and / or IN FLIGHT
the larks’ prolonged song-flights but the pipits
have more ritualized song-flight patterns and below (note that differences greyer head and
less varied songs. upperparts than
of season, age, or sex are not adult male’s
PIPITS
Streaky brown is the typical description of a GREY OR YELLOW? always visible in flight). long, white-edged
pipit: species can be hard to tell apart. Calls help, Although called the Grey Wagtail, this bird confuses many people with black tail
as does the time of year, habitat, and location. its yellow coloration.
Similar species pairs may have different lifestyles, buffish
such as Meadow Pipits (moorland in summer, which breeds beside fast-flowing streams, is
below
lowlands in winter) and Tree Pipits (woodland
edge in summer,Africa in winter). There is little
a regular bird on urban rooftops in winter.
Male and female plumages are often different
DESCRIPTION
plumage variation between sexes and seasons. and winter plumages are duller than summer
ones; juveniles are also recognizably different. Conveys the main features JUVENILE
MALE
WAGTAILS Some species are resident in Europe, others (SUMMER; PIED)
More boldly patterned or more colourful than migrate to Africa for the winter. and essential character of
pipits, the wagtails are often associated with water
the species including:
W idespread and familiar, the Pied (or White) Wagtail is frequent
or wet meadowland. Pied and White Wagtails,
however, are more likely than almost any other
bird to be seen on tarmac or concrete in
urban areas and even the Grey Wagtail,
seen in and around towns, often feeding on areas of tarmac,
VOICE: a description of the concrete, or stone slabs. It is also frequently seen on roofs, from whi
species’ calls and songs. it typically calls before moving off: its call is a useful
indicator of its presence. In summer, it can be found
anywhere from builder’s yards and woodsheds to
NESTING: the type of nest and remote quarries and natural cliffs and along stony river
its usual location; the or lake sides.Although creating few identification
number of eggs in a clutch; problems, its non-breeding plumages are quite complex.
VOICE Calls loud, musical chrip, chuwee, chrruwee, and
the number of broods in
variants, merging into harder, unmusical tissik or chiswit;
a year; the breeding season. song mixes similar calls and trills.
NESTING Grassy cup in cavity in bank, cliff, or
LONG CLAW
Meadow and Tree Pipits are closely similar,
FEEDING: how, where, and woodpile, in outbuilding or under bridge; 5 or 6 eggs;
but the Meadow Pipit has a long hind claw,
at least as long as the toe, as seen here: on what the species feeds on. 2 or 3 broods;April–August.
a Tree Pipit it is shorter. FEEDING Feeds very actively on ground, roofs, or COMMUN
278
waterside mud or rocks, walking, running, leaping up Pied Wagtails
SIMILAR SPECIES or sideways, or flying in pursuit of flies; takes insects, in hundreds i
Similar-looking species are molluscs, and some seeds. centres or ins
6
HOW THIS BOOK WORKS
LARKS/PIPITS AND WAGTAILS
Family Alaudidae Species Chersophilus duponti Family Motacillidae Species Anthus richardi
1
Lark is usually difficult to see: it prefers to run rather bulk, and general plumage. It often stands upright,
than fly when disturbed.This streaky
lark stands upright, showing a closely flattish
streaked breast and white underside.
In flight, the wings look
crown
curved
bill
breast pushed out, on long, thick legs, its bold, strong
bill quite distinct.There is no trace of a crest.The face
is marked by a bold whitish area around the eye with
a dark mark beneath; there is a thick black line
RARE
plain above, pale below
(unlike Skylark or Calandra narrow
Lark, see p.265, 270), and
long,
neck
on each side of the throat (less marked on
a Tawny Pipit, see p.279).The long tail
is often bobbed.
SPECIES
CLASSIFICATION the tail a little longer than on
Crested Lark (see p.266).
OCCURRENCE Regular, but
rare, late autumn migrant in Over 200 less common
OCCURRENCE Rare and local NW Europe, from Asia.
The top band of each entry in E Spain and North Africa, VOICE Loud, rasping schreep
The common
Family Motacillidae
Blyth’s Pipit
Species Anthus godlewski Family Motacillidae
Olive-backed Pipit
Species Anthus hodgsoni
these entries consist of
name of Only recently observed with any regularity in Europe,
Blyth’s Pipit is difficult to identify, resembling Richard’s
Looking rather dark and uniform above or bright and
streaked in front in a brief view, this pipit reveals a
one clear photograph of
the group and juvenile Tawny Pipits (see p.279). It is fractionally
smaller than Richard’s, with a shorter tail, a slightly
subtle pattern on closer examination. It is greenish,
with very soft streaking above, and has a dark cap, a
the species accompanied
PIPITS AND WAGTAILS richer underside colour, a slightly shorter, pointed bill, broad, bright cream stripe above the eye, a dark stripe
the species and shorter hind claws. It may look more like a small through the eye, and a cream spot on the ear coverts.
chin, and
each page. with fading, breathy
quality, psh-eee.
vagrant in NW Europe
from Asia, mostly in
late autumn.
te chin whitish VOICE Tree Pipit-
outside face short
tail
wagtail-like
shape
like hoarse or
buzzing spees
eason) or tees.
k black Length 15–17cm (6–61⁄2 in) Wingspan 28–30cm (11–12in) Length 14–15cm (51⁄2 –6in) Wingspan 24–27cm (91⁄2 –101⁄2 in)
breast 438
VAGRANTS
VAGRANTS
sooty PHOTOGRAPHS T he list that follows consists of birds that
occur only very rarely in Europe, known
accepted that even small birds can, with a
following wind, survive a flight across the
flanks These illustrate the species in different views as vagrants or accidentals. It also looks a little Atlantic, although they probably do not
further beyond Europe, to list those birds survive long afterwards. Larger species,
whose normal range is the Middle East and however, such as some wildfowl, may live for
and plumage variations. Significant differences North Africa, so covering a total faunal area years in Europe and a few (that have been
white belly known as the Western Palearctic. trapped, ringed, and released in order to
relating to age, sex, and season are shown and Vagrants to Europe arrive from Asia and
North America (and fewer from Africa).
follow their movements) have even returned
to North America in subsequent years.These
the images labelled accordingly; if there is no Western Europe, especially the UK, is well
placed to receive birds that are blown off
are not, in any true sense, European birds, but
are included here to complete the range of
course from eastern North America and cross species that have been recorded. Many appear
variation, the images have no label. Unless the Atlantic. It was thought that such birds again, others may not: by their nature these
cross the ocean on board ship, but it is now “accidentals” are unpredictable.
stated otherwise, the bird shown is an adult. Common Name Scientific Name Family/Scientific Name Description
Ostrich
Ostrich Struthio camelus Ratites/Struthidae Vagrant in North Africa, from
southern Africa
Albatrosses
Shy Albatross Diomedea cauta Albatrosses/Diomedeidae Large seabird from southern
oceans
Yellow-nosed Albatross Diomedea Albatrosses/Diomedeidae Large seabird from southern
chlororhynchos oceans
1
SUBSPECIES flies. See panel below. are listed at the back Soft-plumaged Petrel
Fea's Petrel
Pterodroma mollis
Pterodroma feae
Petrels and Shearwaters/
Procellariidae
Petrels and Shearwaters/
Procellariidae
Large petrel from South Atlantic
M. a. alba
SUBSPECIES
of the book with a Zino's Petrel
Bulwer's Petrel
Pterodroma madeira
Bulweria bulwerii
Petrels and Shearwaters/
Procellariidae
Petrels and Shearwaters/
Large, rare petrel from Madeira
Audubon's Shearwater
Puffinus carneipes
Puffinus lherminieri
Petrels and Shearwaters/
Procellariidae
Petrels and Shearwaters/
All-dark shearwater from
Indian Ocean
Small shearwater from
MALE
with distribution and species is from. Procellariidae Indian Ocean
455
distinguishing features.
greyer
browner cap
wings with
white bars FLIGHT PATTERNS
NAL ROOST JUVENILE
s sometimes roost
n trees in town
Simple diagrams are used to illustrate the seven
side factories. basic flight patterns. The broadly horizontal lines Sparrowhawk-like: straight, with several quick,
OCCURRENCE
indicate whether the species has a level, swooping, deep beats between short, flat glides.
Breeds throughout Europe; found or undulating flight, with the wingbeats represented
only in summer in N and E Europe
but widespread in winter. Very
by up and down strokes to indicate bursts of
varied habitat, often near water wingbeats, regular flaps, and speed.
and in built-up areas, feeding on Gull-like: continually flapping, with slow, steady
car parks, pavements, and roof- wingbeats
tops, but not usually in gardens.
Seen in the UK
J F M A M J J A S O N D
7
INTRODUCTION
EVOLUTION
M ost scientists believe birds evolved from dinosaurs.Whether the first
birds climbed trees and began to glide back to the ground, or ran
along the ground and learned to lift off, is still debated.What we do know
is that, over hundreds of millions of years, birds spread over the globe and
adapted to exploit every habitat except deep underwater. Some species ANCIENT BIRDS
are still evolving separate subspecies today. Gamebirds are ancient, but have
changed little over millions of
years. One group, the grouse,
THE MISSING LINK are adapted to survival on a very
In 1861 a series of fossils were found in simple diet in demanding habitats.
limestone beds in Germany that pointed
to the relationship between dinosaurs SPECIALIZED SPECIES
and birds.The fossilized creature, named There are only five species of
Archaeopteryx, is now viewed as the divers worldwide, all found on
northern lakes and sea coasts.
“missing link” because it is very
They have a very specialized
bird-like in appearance, with well- aquatic lifestyle.
developed feathers that are just like
those of a modern bird, and yet still
has many reptilian features such as teeth
ARCHAEOPTERYX in its jaws and a long, flexible, bony tail.
BIRD ANCESTRY
This table shows the relationships between modern can see how different groups split from common
birds (all within the sub-class Neornithes), and their ancestors. Songbirds divided off from the rest
age. Using the branches of the evolutionary tree we more than 100 million years ago.
MILLIONS OF YEARS AGO
150 125 100 75 50 25 0
Ratites, Tinamous
Gamebirds
Neornithes Waterfowl
Button quails
Jacamars, Puffbirds, Hoopoes, Hornbills, Trogons, Rollers, Bee-eaters, Todies, Motmots, Kingfishers
Colies
Cuckoos, Hoatzin
Parrots
Swifts, Hummingbirds
Pigeons
Cranes, Rails
Grebes
Tropicbirds
Gannets, Cormorants
Songbirds
150 125 100 75 50 25 0
8
EVOLUTION
NATURAL SELECTION
“Only the fittest survive.” That is the theory of natural selection
and it is true that the birds best adapted to an environment
have an advantage over the rest and produce offspring that
perpetuate their own genetic make-up.There are many
ways in which a species may evolve in response to changing
habitats or food. If such a change happens in only one part
of a species’ range, and the birds in that area remain separate,
they may change so much that they can no longer interbreed.
The result is two species instead of one.There is a halfway
stage: two groups may differ
in size or colour, but can
still interbreed.At this
point they are called
“subspecies”
or “races”.
PERSISTENT STARLING
The common Starling is successful through most of
CHAFFINCH Europe but does not breed in Iberia and North Africa,
where the Spotless Starling replaces it. This latter species
must have evolved in isolation but has persisted despite
BRAMBLING an influx of common Starlings into Spain every winter.
Class
Aves (Birds)
Order
9
INTRODUCTION
ANATOMY
A lthough there is a huge diversity in shape,
size, and outer appearance, all birds have a
similar internal structure.They are vertebrates,
Their bones are like ours, but the proportions are
very different. For example, the wing bones are
like a human arm; the “inner wing” equivalent to
so have a jointed internal skeleton with two our forearm, and the “outer wing” like the bones
forelimbs and two hindlimbs, just like fish, of our hand.What makes them unique is that
reptiles, and mammals – including humans. they are the only animals with feathers.
belly
median coverts
hindneck
nape
crown TOPSIDE
There are several rows of feathers
forehead along the inner half of the spread
wing: the marginal coverts, lesser
chin coverts, median coverts, and greater
throat coverts (simple enough, as they get
larger towards the back), and the trailing
edge is formed by the secondaries. The
tertials outer half repeats the pattern but the coverts
rump at the base of the primaries are restricted to a
scapulars patch on the “wrist”, with the addition of the
tail alula or bastard wing. At the base of the
mantle wing, the shoulder feathers, or scapulars,
form an obvious patch each side of the back.
10
ANATOMY
“wrist”
WING MARKINGS
Look at the feather tracts on a bird when
perched and in flight. On some species
most feathers are visible on the closed
tertials
wing. On others, such as this Gull-billed hidden in
Tern, the primaries and secondaries are flight
hidden: all we can see are the primary tips. “elbow”
A large area between the back and the
wingtips is formed by rounded, plain grey
secondaries
feathers called the tertials. On some birds now visible on
these are large and obvious but in flight, as spread wing
the wings straighten, they may slide out
of sight under the scapulars.Therefore OPEN AND CLOSED WINGS
what is a prominent feature at rest This Gull-billed Tern has very long,
may disappear in flight. tapered, pointed wings that reach
well beyond its tail when folded but
scapulars
extend to reveal the obvious “wrist”
(or carpal) joint and the elbow joint
closer to the body. Only the fore edge
of the inner half of the wing has any
full length of solid muscle; the rest is just feathers.
primary tertials wing coverts primaries revealed
tips cover half cover on open wing
of primaries secondaries
FEATHERS
FEET Feathers not only allow flight large tail feathers, are usually
The shape of the feet indicates the and keep a bird warm and dry, wider on one side than the other
lifestyle of a bird. For example, webbed but they also add a variety of to create the aerofoil shape that
feet or toes with broad lobes each side colour, pattern, and shape. Some gives a bird extra lift.They are
aid swimming, while feathered feet help develop purely for decoration, overlain at the base by smaller
prevent heat loss.There are variations, while others provide cryptic “coverts”.The feathers that
but below are four of the main shapes patterns to help the bird avoid smooth the shape of a bird’s
and details of the actions they enable. predators.The large, stiff quills body are the contour feathers,
that support a bird in the air, the while loose down feathers form
“flight feathers”, and the equally an insulating underlayer.
outer
web
inner
web
WALKING CLIMBING
The long hind claw is Two backward-facing
typical of small birds, toes and strong claws COMPLEX STRUCTURE
such as pipits, that run allow climbing birds to Feathers are amazingly complex.
or walk in grassy places. grip onto a branch. This close-up shows that the vanes
each side of the central
shaft “zip” together
with minute hooks
and barbs.
11
INTRODUCTION
LIFE CYCLE
third summer, and so on (as illustrated here by the
A bird’s appearance can vary significantly as
a result of age or seasonal change. Newly
hatched, chicks may be naked or downy. The
Black-headed Gull, whose sequence of plumages is
related to the seasons).There are variations on the
down is quickly replaced by a first set of feathers, theme. For example, while most birds have their
called the juvenile plumage. In autumn, some brightest plumage in summer, wildfowl are at their
of these feathers are moulted and replaced (the best while pairing up in midwinter; the males
wing and tail feathers are usually retained) to become dull in summer, in an “eclipse” plumage.
produce a first winter plumage. In the following
spring, a partial moult produces the first summer
MARCH
plumage. From late summer onwards, all the
feathers are replaced in a complete moult. Smaller
birds may now be in their adult plumage; larger 1
FIRST WINTER
species, such as many of the gulls and birds of August–March. An autumn moult
prey, have more intermediate (immature) stages: of the head and body only (not
wings and tail) produces the back now pale
second winter, second summer, third winter, winter plumage. grey, all brown
feathers replaced
FEBRUARY
juvenile wing white underside,
feathers are now head gains partial no trace of juvenile
a year old, fading brown hood brown on sides
paler of breast
MARCH
1
BREEDING
1
FIRST SUMMER
April–August. Another partial moult Some Black-headed Gulls may pair up in late
(head and body only again) in spring winter or early spring in their second year, but
produces this summer plumage. most are not ready to breed until their third year.
ADULT SUMMER
April–August. A partial spring moult creates the dark brown black and
hood of the adult’s spring and summer plumage; the wing white
and tail feathers are retained from the previous winter. wingtips
immaculate grey
upperparts
12
LIFE CYCLE
1
HATCHING VARIATIONS
April/May. The eggshell is “pipped”
as the chick breaks it open with its Although most larger species follow
“egg tooth”, a knob on the bill that a similar pattern of partial moulting
is quickly lost. Chicks are downy and and plumage changes, some may be in
ready to leave the nest within hours. moult almost all the time. Big eagles
and vultures always have a few missing
or half-grown feathers. Female Hen
Harriers moult some wing feathers
while incubating eggs while Red
Kites normally moult after breeding,
but if they lose eggs or chicks they no
longer need to be in top condition so
moult earlier. Large species are not
APRIL MAY
mature enough to breed until they are
several years old, while small species
JUNE
can breed at just one year of age.
JUVENILE
1
PROLONGED ADOLESCENCE
much tawny
June/July. The chick grows brown on Fulmars change little in appearance according
its juvenile set of feathers, back, head, to age or season, but they may be seven years
ready for its first flight. and neck old before they are mature and able to breed.
SEPTEMBER AUGUST
tawny breast-band
obvious but soon
replaced by white
RAPID CYCLES
Gamebirds such as the Red-legged Partridge
are in full plumage and ready to breed before
AUGUST SEPTEMBER they even reach one year in age.
JANUARY DECEMBER
bright deep
1
red red
legs September–March. A complete In its third year the gull is now ready to legs
autumn moult creates the winter breed. A spring moult produces a hood
plumage: white head, dark ear-spot, again; the white wingtip areas wear
and new, unworn wing feathers. away more quickly than the black.
13
INTRODUCTION
FIT TO BREED
Wildfowl have ritualized calls and
displays specific to their species.
This male Ruddy Duck is literally
blowing bubbles to impress:
he rattles his bill against his
breast feathers, forcing air from
between them into the water.
THE LEK
A lek is a communal
display ground where TOP MALE
males of some species, A male Pheasant calls and thrashes his wings,
such as these Black raising his tail to make himself look as big
Grouse, have mock as he can. He does this in order to dominate
battles. The outcome is other males and attract a hen. Once he has
serious, though: females her attention, he will tilt towards her, drooping
choose the strongest, his nearside wing and spreading his tail, to
most dominant males show himself off to best advantage.
to mate with.
14
COURTSHIP AND MATING
BREEDING MATING
When it comes to reproducing, there The act of mating is brief,
isn’t just one favoured strategy. Even but can be frequent. Ospreys
mate scores of times during
within some species there is variation.
the egg-laying period, but
The Dunnock may form a simple pair a single mating is enough
that stays together all summer, but some to fertilize a whole clutch
males have more than one mate and, of eggs. Most birds mate
indeed, so do some females. Even on the ground or a perch.
within apparently monogamous species, However, Swifts may mate
fidelity is not always the norm, and in the air whereas ducks,
should one of the pair die, the survivor such as these Goldeneyes,
mate on water.
usually has little difficulty finding
a new mate. Unless the population
is in decline, there is usually
a healthy surplus. MONOGAMOUS BONDS
Most birds are monogamous, although
many are quick to seize the chance to
mate with a passing stranger. It seems
that an extra mate is viewed as insurance
against possible failure, as it doubles the
chance of finding a fit and successful
partner. Some species, such as the Mute
Swan, however, pair for life and maintain
a year-round bond that is rarely broken.
MUTUAL PREENING
Strengthening the bond between a male and female
bird takes many forms. These Guillemots are preening
each other; such intimate contact means that all the
usual barriers that keep individuals apart have been
broken down while they are rearing their offspring.
PROMISCUITY
The male Capercaillie mates with
many hens. This gives him as many
chances as possible to sire healthy REVERSAL OF ROLES
offspring. Afterwards, he has In a few species, such as the
nothing more to do with the hens. Dotterel, the female is larger and
brighter than the male. She lays a
clutch of eggs for him to incubate,
then goes off to find another male.
15
INTRODUCTION
16
NESTS AND EGGS
NO NEST PLASTERWORK
The Little Ringed Plover makes a shallow scrape in sand for The Nuthatch uses a woodpecker’s hole or
its eggs, giving it little or no lining. When disturbed, the bird a natural hole in a tree. It plasters the entrance
runs off and relies on the eggs’ camouflage pattern to save with mud to get a perfect fit – just big enough
them. While hawks and eagles make large nests, falcons for it to squeeze inside – which should
never do: they lay their eggs straight onto a bare ledge. protect the nest from predators.
TREE HOLE
Woodpeckers, such as this Lesser
Spotted Woodpecker, excavate holes
in living trees, using their chisel-like bills.
The nest chamber is left unlined apart
from a few chippings.
FLOATING NEST
Black-necked Grebes build floating
heaps of weed that are anchored
to the bottom. If they have to
leave the site, they cover their
NESTING ON BUILDINGS eggs with a few scraps of
White Storks have long nested on buildings, weed in order to hide
especially on church towers, although them from predators. COMPLEX STRUCTURE
some still use trees. In parts of Europe they The Long-tailed Tit’s nest is a masterpiece
use telegraph poles. In Spain, poles with of spiders’ webs, moss, lichens, and
cartwheels are provided specially for them. feathers. It is hard to see, and stretches
as the chicks grow bigger.
17
INTRODUCTION
PLUMAGE
F eathers are unique to birds.They keep them
warm, are lightweight, and add aerodynamics
that allow flight.They also provide colours and
least every year by a process of moult, but older
ones can look slightly worn and faded.All birds
keep their plumage in as good a condition as
patterns that are used for camouflage, display, possible by frequent preening and bathing in
and communication. Feathers are renewed at water or sometimes in dust.
superciliary stripe MISTLE
THRUSH
MARKINGS
Feathers create complex patterns but spots
these usually have regular structures.
On the head, the crown may have lengthwise
a central stripe and darker sides; above CIRL streaks
eye-stripe BUNTING
the eye may be a superciliary stripe,
while through the eye there could be rump hood eye-ring
an eye-stripe.Wings may have wingbars colour or cap
across the tips of the coverts or along
DUNNOCK
the base of the flight feathers.There
may be streaks, spots, or bars on the wingbar
bars
body. Each of these marks helps us tail RED-LEGGED
to distinguish individual species. pattern CHAFFINCH PARTRIDGE
Female
camouflage
pattern protects dark plumage white body gives
from predators prevents mistaken long-distance
attack by visual contact
Male territorial parent when feeding
18
PLUMAGE
MOULTING
Moult is a well-ordered process. Each
worn feather is pushed out when a new
one grows through the skin at its base. HIDING AWAY
The new feather begins as a tiny bump Stripes on the front of a
Bittern make it extremely
– a “goose bump” – on the skin and
hard to see when it
grows as a shiny sheath that bursts open stretches upright in the
at the tip to reveal the soft webs. On dead reed stems of winter.
most birds moult is not easy to see, but It is much easier to spot
on some larger ones it is possible to in the summertime.
spot gaps where feathers are missing.
Old feathers usually become paler and
pure colours, such as grey and green,
tend to turn browner as the feathers
age.These contrasts can sometimes be
seen on a bird at close range, or in a
photograph, but most studies of moult
rely on trained bird ringers, who catch
birds and examine their stage of moult
before releasing them.
CAMOUFLAGE
A major function of plumage pattern is to break up the
shape of a bird so it is hard to see. Both predators and prey
use camouflage: one to get close to its meal, the other to
avoid detection. For example, Oystercatcher flocks confuse
predators with a mass of dazzling white patches.
19
INTRODUCTION
FLIGHT
A ll the birds that are found within Europe can fly. It is this
ability that allows them to travel the globe, moving far and
wide to exploit seasonal abundances of food while escaping any
shortages. It is fascinating that these small creatures are able to
fly across oceans, mountains, and deserts, although such
journeys often tax them to the limit.Their most significant
features, which provide them with the means to fly and HOVERING LESSER KESTREL
control the direction of that flight, are their wings and tail. Birds of prey can hover while they search for food.
To do this, they position their head into the wind,
flicker their wings, and fan their tail.
WING AND TAIL SHAPE
The shape of wings varies from species to species (as wings allow for shorter bursts of rapid, whirring beats
shown below), and is largely dependent on the type and provide fast acceleration – useful for ground-
of flight used. Generally, long, narrow wings (such as dwelling birds escaping predators.Tails are used for
a Swallow’s) are most efficient for sustained, fluent, balance, steering, and braking; a long, stiff tail ensures
manoeuvrable flight. Long, broad wings enable many good balance while a forked tail or long tail that can
birds to ride the winds using little energy. Short, round open and close like a fan acts as a rudder and a brake.
20
FLIGHT
TAKING OFF
Getting airborne uses a lot of energy. Many birds take
off into the wind from dry land, flapping their wings
hard in a figure of eight pattern to create lift and
forward propulsion; others jump from a clifftop or
tree, moving forwards into the air. Most water birds
need to run along the surface of the water in order
to build up the necessary momentum.
HEAVYWEIGHT SWAN
LANDING The Mute Swan is close to the
Birds fly surprisingly fast and so have upper weight limit for flight. It
to reduce their speed quickly before needs to run along the water to
get aloft: its legs are too short to
landing. Most birds swing their bodies
give much of a leap from dry land.
backwards and fan their tails to assist
braking, flapping their wings against the TAIL BRAKE
TAKING OFF FROM LAND direction of flight. Just before impact This Woodpigeon (below) has
This Grey Heron stretches forwards, pushes down they thrust their feet its head up, feet ready to push
as hard as it can with its wings, and leaps up with forward to act as down, and its wings well back.
a powerful spring of its legs to rise into the air. Its broad tail, when fully spread,
shock absorbers.
acts as an air brake and enables
a safe landing.
CO-ORDINATION
A mixed flock of Oystercatchers and Knots makes a
remarkable sight in the air as it turns and twists like
smoke, without a single collision. Such birds have
super-quick reactions and tight control.
21
INTRODUCTION
FEEDING
B irds eat a wide range of items from a variety of
sources; some, for example, perch to eat berries
while others dive into water to fish.The overall shape
BLACKBIRD
forages for
worms and
berries BLUE TIT
pecks at
tiny insects
and seeds
UPENDING
This Shelduck is unable to reach
the bottom by just dipping its
head under the water’s
surface, so it gets a little
deeper by swinging its
whole body over and
stretching its neck.
FISHING PROBING
A Kingfisher catches fish by The long bill of a Godwit is the ideal tool
grabbing them, not stabbing, for pushing deep into soft mud in order
despite its sharp bill. It usually to probe for worms and molluscs. However,
drops from a perch, then flies if the ground is too hard it cannot feed.
back up with a fish in its beak.
It will then beat the fish against
a branch before swallowing it.
22
FEEDING
KLEPTOPARASITISM
AERIAL FEEDERS
Catching insects in flight is a skilful operation, and Many birds are quick to take
is undertaken in different ways. Nightjars have tiny bills but advantage of smaller, weaker species
by stealing their food.This is called
wide mouths that are fringed with bristles – these allow them
kleptoparasitism. For example, Great
to catch flying moths after dark. Swifts catch tiny insects high Black-backed Gulls harry Puffins
in the sky by day while swallows chase bigger flies returning to their burrows with fish
low down over meadows. Hobbies also catch while Black-headed Gulls chase
bigger insects, as well as small birds, but lapwings in fields, forcing them to
use their feet to do so.All of these drop juicy worms. Sometimes even
examples eat their prey in one bird of prey will rob another.
mid-air. Flycatchers and many
warblers, however, return to a
perch once they have snapped
up their prey.
FLY-CATCHING EXPERT
The Spotted Flycatcher sits alert
and upright on a perch until it
spots a small moth or a fly. It darts
out, twisting and turning with POWERFUL SKUAS
great agility, to catch the prey in Great Skuas not only kill birds but also force
its bill with a loud “snap”, then down and steal food from other seabirds such
returns to the same perch as Kittiwakes, Fulmars, and even Gannets.
to eat its meal at leisure.
23
INTRODUCTION
CONSTANT REPETITION
The Song Thrush is easy to identify when in song.
It sings a few notes – mellow or loud and
challenging – in a short phrase. Each quick burst
of notes is repeated two or three times before
another theme is introduced.
UNMUSICAL PERFORMANCE
The Fulmar sits on its nesting ledge and greets its
mate as it flies by, or settles alongside it, with a burst of
raucous, throaty cackling. To us the calls are coarse and
unmusical, but they probably help Fulmars to identify
each other and are an important part of courtship.
24
SONG AND CALLS
SCREAMING DISPLAY
Swifts form high-speed "screaming parties" that
dash around in the sky calling loudly. This practice
seems to have a social significance within the
breeding colony. They call as
they approach the nest,
too, alerting their partner
to their imminent arrival.
HUNGER CALL
Baby birds stimulate their parents to feed them by
calling loudly, just like a human baby cries for
attention. They risk attracting a predator, so the
parent is forced to provide food to keep them quiet.
DRUM ROLL
A different mechanical sound, also
called “drumming”, is made by a EARLY PERFORMER
woodpecker. It creates a sudden In most areas the Robin is one of the
burst of sound by rapidly vibrating dominant songsters in the dawn chorus.
its bill against a resonant branch. It also sings under street lights at night,
The abrupt drum roll carries well apparently fooled by the artificial lighting.
through a dense forest.
25
INTRODUCTION
MIGRATION
N orthern Europe is full of insect food in summer,
when long days allow birds time to feed both
themselves and their young. Such resources are too
good to miss, but few birds can survive in the far north
in winter when the days become short and cold. Only
by huge movements of millions of birds can they exploit
feeding opportunities to the full.The regular rhythms of A SIGN OF THE SEASONS
Migrating geese make a marvellous
migration are an essential part of many species’ existence.
spectacle and sound. In parts of northern
Europe they are a visible sign of the Canadian
INSTINCTIVE MOVE changing seasons as they migrate south Arctic islands
Birds migrate by instinct. In many species adults and in autumn and north in spring.
young birds migrate separately, but the youngsters are
somehow programmed to move at the right time and PUTTING ON WEIGHT
to follow the right routes. Some gather into large Small warblers such as the Sedge
Warbler double their weight before
flocks and migrate together. Others simply slip
they migrate. Sedge Warblers eat
away one night alone, embarking on a journey aphids in reedbeds before flying
that remains one of nature’s most magical and across the Sahara in one flight that North America
dramatic undertakings. Before proceeding with may last four days. Others feast on
such a journey a bird needs to ensure that it is rich, sugary berries before they migrate.
in tiptop condition – this often requires Such birds quickly put on layers of
some careful preparation. fat: essential fuel for their journeys.
WHEN TO DEPART
Changing day length in spring and
autumn is more of a clue that the time
is right to migrate than changes in
temperature. A bird’s internal clock
takes note of the seasonal changes
and stimulates a restlessness at
migration time. It also starts off the
hormonal changes that make physical
adjustments, such as the accumulation
of extra fat for long-distance journeys.
OVERLAND FLIGHTS
Broad-winged birds such as White
Storks use up too much energy in
MAKING THEIR WAY flapping flight so must glide over
Birds navigate in a number of ways. long distances. To do this, they must
They certainly use the sun and the stars be able to gain height, which they
and may also see polarized light, which do by riding thermals or “bubbles”
allows them to judge where the sun is of warm, rising air. These only form
even on cloudy days.They probably have over land, so the birds must cross
a magnetic sense too, and may even be the sea at the narrowest points,
such as Gibraltar and Istanbul.
able to detect the position of the poles as
they refer to the sky, which would indicate
their latitude.What we still don’t
understand is how they know
which way they should fly.
READY TO GO
Swallows and House
NIGHT MIGRANTS Martins migrate by day,
Many songbirds, such as Goldcrests, feeding on insects as they
migrate at night, relying on the stars to go. They gather in large
find their way. A sudden onset of cloud and fog flocks in autumn, before
may “ground” thousands of them along a coast, making a move together
making exciting birdwatching the next morning. towards Africa.
26
MIGRATION
GLOBETROTTERS
Waders and wildfowl are amazing travellers but so are some
small, familiar birds. For example, Swallows from the United
Kingdom travel to the far south of Africa in winter. Barnacle
Geese fly north in spring to breed around the Arctic. Such
birds that breed in the far north remain in the south till late
in May, when the Arctic snows begin to melt.The map
below shows three examples of long-distance migration.
South America
WINTER WANDERERS
Fieldfares move south and west in
winter to avoid cold weather. In
SOUTH midwinter they may be forced to
AT L A N T I C travel further still if there is severe
cold or snow, but they return
as soon as conditions improve.
Several species are nomadic,
2,000km wandering wherever there is
2,000 miles
food during the winter months.
PARTIAL MIGRANTS
Some species are resident, remaining summer
in the same area all year round. range
Others are what are called partial
migrants.This means that part of the resident
all year
the species population is resident,
inhabiting an area that can sustain
them year round, while the other MEADOW PIPIT
part lives in less hospitable areas and Meadow Pipits are summer visitors in some
so needs to migrate south during areas, resident in others. Those that breed
the winter months to find food. winter range seen on migration in the north go south for winter (see map).
27
INTRODUCTION
WESTERN PALEARCTIC
E urope, North Africa, and Asia (north of the
Himalayas) form one large entity, called the
Palearctic. It is identified by a characteristic set of
plants and animals, which adhere to natural rather
than political boundaries.This book focuses on
the western part of this region – west of the Ural
Mountains – giving an overview of the birdlife in BEWICK’S SWAN
an area extending slightly beyond Europe. A number of species breed widely around the Arctic
and move to western Europe in winter to escape severe
SONG THRUSH weather conditions. The Bewick’s Swan is typical of these.
Thrushes are found almost
worldwide, but form a
distinctive part of Western ROBIN
Palearctic birdlife. They Robins are related to
include some of the best thrushes and evolved in
known songbirds in Europe, Western Palearctic forests.
such as the Blackbird, and They adapted to forest life,
widely travelled migrants, finding worms and insects
such as this Song Thrush. in earth turned up by
moles and foraging wild
boars. More recently
they have turned to
DIFFERENT ENVIRONMENTS garden habitats.
“Palearctic” refers to the arctic conditions endured by
much of the region in the Ice Ages; the legacy of this
remains, with several species still moving back to areas from
which they were driven by the ice.The Western Palearctic is
claearly delimited by the sea in the west and the Sahara in the south,
but its eastern boundary is harder to draw.Within this region, the
habitats available to birds are amazingly varied.Arctic and Siberian
habitats provide tundra and a belt of dense forest.There are also
grasslands and steppes and a mixed European zone with
temperate forests, wetlands, and mountains.The
Mediterranean has distinctive hot, dry summers
and cooler winters, while North Africa and the
Middle East are hot and arid but also have
snow-capped mountain peaks. Birds have
adapted in many ways to this great range
of challenges and opportunities. DARTFORD WARBLER
Warblers include many typical
WHEATEAR Palearctic forms. The Dartford
The Wheatear is an exceptionally widespread representative of its Warbler is one of several centred
family, breeding from Africa to the Arctic. Other wheatears prefer to on Mediterranean heathland.
stay in more southerly regions, in hot, often semi-arid, habitats.
28
WESTERN PALEARCTIC
DISTRIBUTION
Various distribution patterns occur in the
region. Birds such as the Kestrel breed Svalbard
across Europe,Africa, and Asia. Others,
such as the Long-eared Owl, breed in
North America, Europe, and Asia.
Species found across Europe and Iceland
Asia are labelled “Palearctic”,
while the Robin is solely Faroe
“European”, and the Dartford Islands
Finland Russian
Norway
Warbler “Mediterranean”. Federation
Sweden Estonia
Republic United Denmark Latvia
of Ireland Kingdom
Lithuania
Netherlands Belarus
Kazakhstan
Azores Belgium Germany Poland
Luxembourg
Czech Republic Ukraine
France Slovak Republic
Switzerland Austria Hungary Moldavia
Portugal Slovenia Croatia Romania
Spain Yugoslavia Georgia
Bosnia Armenia Azerbaijan
Italy
Madeira Bulgaria
Albania
Macedonia Turkey
Canary Greece
Islands Morocco
Syria
Cyprus
Tunisia Crete Lebanon Iraq
Israel
THE REGION AND ITS BIRDS Jordan Saudi
The Western Palearctic includes Europe as well as Algeria Arabia
countries around its edges (the region is outlined in Libya
Egypt
pink here). The Canary Islands, Azores, and North
Africa are Palearctic in their birdlife. In the Middle
East, the mix includes African and Oriental species.
Niger Chad
PALEARCTIC BIRDS
Most Palearctic birds are unique to the region. A SELECT FEW
While there are just three
Of the hundreds of Palearctic songbirds, for species of kingfisher in the
example, only 16 also occur in the Americas. Of Western Palearctic, and only
the rest of the bird species in the region, just 100 one occurs in Europe, there
are found in the Americas.There is more of an are 88 worldwide. In some
overlap with the Orient and Africa, but there are ways the Palearctic is more
still 65 genera that are only ever found in the easily defined by what it lacks
Palearctic. However, the Western Palearctic has than by what it has. What it
does have, nonetheless, is a
only half as many species as the Eastern Palearctic.
unique combination of birdlife.
HABITAT RANGE
Western Palearctic habitats create a variety
of bird communities. Those living in deserts,
which have hot days and cold nights, face
quite different challenges to those in
northern forests and on high ground.
29
INTRODUCTION
WETLANDS
W etlands include a range of watery habitats, from the
edge of the sea to lakes, reservoirs and lagoons,
rivers, marshes, and seasonal floods.Water means just one
thing to birds – abundant food, in the form of fish,
invertebrates, and plant material.Wetland birds exploit
these food stocks in innumerable ways: swimming on or
under water, wading into it, flying over it, or living in
the dense, upright stems of plants found alongside the
edge. Unfortunately, many of these habitats have been
reduced by centuries of drainage and some wetland
habitats and their birds are under serious threat today.
SALINE SPECIALIST
Greater Flamingos require salty water full of tiny
LOWLAND FLOODS AND WASHES invertebrates and algae. They sweep their odd bills
Wet grasslands with scattered pools are great places for upside down through the water to filter out food.
breeding waders in spring. In winter, the areas flood and
become magnets for waterfowl. Many of the
best areas are managed as nature reserves; by SWANS ON WET PASTURE
controlling water levels and grazing livestock Bewick’s and Whooper Swans are
the best conditions for birds can be produced. wild, migrant swans from the north
that travel to wet grassland areas in
northwest Europe each winter.
WETLAND FEAST
Flood plains and low-lying river valleys flood during
heavy rainfall. Worms, insects, seeds, and other
vegetable matter float to the surface or are washed
up at the water’s edge for waterfowl to feed on.
REED WARBLER
Small patches of reed are perfect
for this songbird. Its strong feet
provide a good grip on upright
perches. It weaves its deep, cup-
shaped nest around several stems.
30
WETLANDS
WHERE TO WATCH
31
INTRODUCTION
ESTUARIES
A muddy estuary is an excellent
source of food for numerous birds
as fish, tiny snails, worms, shellfish, FLOCKING TO THE BEACH
and other invertebrates are very Black-headed Gulls find safe refuge on offshore bars
abundant.The twice-daily flow of and beaches, resting between feeding sessions.
the tides also enriches the inter-
tidal mud and sand with nutrients. SAND AND SHINGLE
Birds from vast areas of northern SLAVONIAN Harder beaches, which are made up of
Europe and Asia rely on such estuaries GREBE sand and gravel, are not as good as soft
from autumn right through to late spring Grebes breed on mud for long-billed, probing waders.
as they rarely freeze over. During those freshwater lakes but However, these beaches are used by
seasons swimmers, divers, waders, probers, move to the sea in the
short-billed waders, such as plovers,
autumn. Slavonian
and aerial feeders all exploit the food that Grebes, such as this one
that can pick food from the surface
is to be found in the mud, sand, and in its winter plumage, or from between stones. Seaweed and
shallow water. In the summertime, gulls, can often be seen other debris washed up at high tide
terns, ducks, larks, and pipits also breed on drifting into an estuary form a “tidewrack” or strandline, along
the firmer salt marshes that are situated all with the rising tide. which other birds, including some land
the way around the edge of an estuary. birds such as Starlings, can feed on tiny
DUNES AND
sand hoppers and other
LAGOONS small creatures.
Sand consolidates into tall,
grassy dunes with damp
hollows ideal for waders,
Skylarks, and Meadow
Pipits. Shallow lagoons
above high tides offer
feeding areas for gulls,
Shelducks, and Ringed SWEEPING AVOCET
Plovers, while dry sand An Avocet sweeps its upcurved bill
spits are nest sites for sideways through shallow water,
terns and waders. catching tiny crustaceans.
SALTMARSH RICHES
Large marshes have an abundance of salt-
tolerant plants that attract insects, so are full of
food for birds. Redshanks, Black-headed Gulls,
and Mallards nest in these places in summer.
32
ESTUARIES AND LOW-LYING COASTS
ADAPTATIONS
The curved bill of the Curlew is strong enough WHERE TO WATCH
to catch and break up crabs.
With flattened, chisel-shaped bills, Oystercatchers
prise shellfish off rocks and break into them.
The camouflage patterning of the Little Tern’s
eggs allows it to lay them straight onto sand or shingle
without building a nest.
They are perfectly
camouflaged against the
WADERS FLOCK TO SAFE ROOSTS AT HIGH TIDE
beach so are usually safe
even when unattended. 1 MORECAMBE BAY, 3 IJSSELMEER,
Broad, flattened bills ENGLAND NETHERLANDS
with rough edges are This is a vast estuary complex This enclosed and part-reclaimed
with mostly sandy flats fringed estuary sees migrant gulls,
swept in semi-circular LITTLE TERN
with extensive salt marshes and terns, and waders in spring and
directions across soft mud sand dunes. Firm banks above autumn while in winter it has
and shallow water by Shelducks.This enables them the high tide mark offer refuges great numbers of Tufted Ducks,
for wildfowl and waders to roost Pochards, Scaup, Wigeon,
to gather up tiny snails, which they then feed on. at high tide. The area attracts Goosanders, and Smews.
Long legs allow waders, such as Knots, to stand Oystercatchers, Bar-tailed
upright in water, while their long toes stop them Godwits, Knots, Dunlins, 4 WATTENMEER,
sinking into the sticky mud.Their sensitive bill tips Curlews, Shelducks, Redshanks, GERMANY
Ringed Plovers, and Turnstones.
allow them to probe for worms.The length of the This is the eastern end of the
bill is a good clue Netherlands’ Waddenzee – a vast,
2 THE WASH,
shallow area of estuarine character
to the depth to ENGLAND where over a million water birds
which a species The wash is a huge enclosed appear in spring and autumn.
will probe and estuary that opens out onto the
the size of food North Sea. Most of it is muddy,
but there are sand banks at the
they take. mouth and extensive saltmarshes
around the edges. It sees big
flocks of Knots, Dunlins, Bar-
SHELDUCK tailed Godwits, and Grey Plovers.
In winter it attracts tens of
thousands of Pink-footed Geese, AVOCETS
Brent Geese, and Wigeon.
5 EBRO DELTA, SPAIN
This area is half reclaimed but is
still great for birds; in summer it
has the world’s biggest colony of
Audouin’s Gulls as well as Gull-
billed Terns, Kentish Plovers, and
Pratincoles. In autumn and winter
KNOTS Greater Flamingos and many
wildfowl and waders can be seen.
PINK-FOOTED GEESE
Low-lying
coasts
1 2 3
4
33
INTRODUCTION
SHELLFISH
EATER
Oystercatchers
hammer open
mussels on
seaweedy rocks.
CLIFF NEST
Cliff ledges are out of reach
of predators, so attract
seabirds. They are difficult
places though: seabirds’
chicks would fall to their
deaths if they didn’t have
the natural instinct to keep
still on a tiny ledge. Shags
build big nests of sticks NOCTURNAL VISITOR
and weed, Kittiwakes Storm Petrels spend most of
create a nest on the their time at sea but must
tiniest outcrop, while come to land to nest. As they
Guillemots do not are easily captured by gulls,
make nests at all. they will only land after dark.
34
ROCKY COASTS, ISLANDS, AND THE OPEN SEA
WHERE TO WATCH
1 ROST, NORWAY 4 BEMPTON CLIFFS, UK 7 MAJORCA, SPAIN
This island group houses These cliffs house an unusual The Balearic Islands in general
many seabird colonies, including mainland Gannet colony (most are rocky and have many cliffs
hundreds of thousands of are found on islands), and one of where seabirds can nest. They are
Puffins as well as guillemots, the easiest large seabird colonies good places to view Cory’s and
Razorbills, Storm Petrels, and to see in the UK, with safe viewing Mediterranean Shearwaters, often
Leach’s Petrels. platforms above sheer cliffs. There close inshore, as well as Yellow-
are many Kittiwakes and guillemots, legged Gulls. In late summer
2 ORKNEY ISLANDS, Razorbills, Puffins, Herring Gulls, Eleonora’s Falcons nest locally, CORY’S SHEARWATERS
UK Fulmars, and some Shags and preying on migrant
Cormorants. It is a good place to songbirds. Some islets
A spectacular archipelago with
view offshore seabird migration. and headlands have the
Fulmars, Guillemots, Razorbills,
rare and local
Kittiwakes, Arctic Terns, Arctic
5 BERLENGO, Audouin’s Gull. 1
Skuas, and Great Skuas.
PORTUGAL
3 BASS ROCK, UK This island attracts thousands
Rocky coasts 2
of Yellow-legged Gulls, Cory’s
This has a stunning Gannet colony 3
Shearwaters, Shags, and guillemots.
that reaches more than 40,000
pairs. Also sees guillemots, Puffins, 4
Kittiwakes, and other gulls and is 6 GREEK ISLANDS
easily reached by boat. Many Greek islands have
Yellow-legged Gulls, Cory’s
Shearwaters, and Mediterranean
Shearwaters. Some have breeding 5
Eleonora’s Falcons and Audouin’s
and Mediterranean Gulls, as well
as an excellent selection of land 7
birds such as shrikes and warblers,
BASS ROCK including migrants in autumn. 6
35
INTRODUCTION
NORTHERN FJORDS
Sheltered bays and cold water full of fish offer
security and food for seabirds and wildfowl
in what is otherwise the bleak and windswept
far northern tip of Europe.
36
THE FAR NORTH
POOLS
From autumn until May or early June the pools
of the tundra are frozen and covered with snow.
Waders, ducks, and geese that breed up here are
still in their wintering areas until May; slightly
south, larger lakes on the tundra fringe see birds
in early spring. Once the short summer is under
way, the pools are alive with insects and their larvae.
Long-tailed Ducks and Red-necked Phalaropes
gorge themselves on the thick rime of insect life
found on some northern lakes. Downy chicks of
waders and ducks can feed themselves within hours STELLER’S EIDER
of hatching and find life easy with so much food; In spring and summer. a few hundred spectacular Steller’s Eiders form dense
but they also face a barrage of hungry predators. flocks offshore in food-rich seas off the extreme north of Norway.
BLACK-THROATED DIVER
1 2
Tundra areas
37
INTRODUCTION
NORTHERN MOUNTAINS
These mountains reproduce the cold, windswept, and
barren conditions of far northern lowlands, and so
winter sees most birds journeying south or moving
to lowland areas. In summer, however, these same
habitats offer greater possibilities for migrants, as
insect and plant life has a brief period of abundance
and small rodents multiply quickly in the grasslands,
providing food for predators.
The rocky gullies and crags
provide nest sites for birds and EXPOSED MOUNTAIN REGIONS
good feeding opportunities. On high, exposed ground the tundra-like
conditions, which include sparse vegetation,
DOTTEREL cliffs, and screes, are exploited by only a
Dotterels like broad, rolling ridges and small selection of hardy sub-Arctic birds.
stony plateaux at high altitude, where they
feed on insect life in summer.
38
NORTHERN MOUNTAINS AND MOORLANDS
CONIFER
PLANTATIONS WHERE TO WATCH
Many moorlands have
been planted with alien
conifers. These provide
temporary homes for
Black Grouse, Hen
Harriers, and Whinchats
until they grow too tall
and dense. Chaffinches,
Robins, and Coal Tits
may then move in.
THE CAIRNGORMS
ADAPTATIONS 1 VATNA JOKULL, 3 CAIRNGORMS,
Camouflage helps Dotterels, Golden Plovers, and ICELAND SCOTLAND
other breeding birds to blend in to barren surroundings. The high central plateau of A unique area in the UK with
Ptarmigan turn white in winter, helping them to Iceland is bleak and forbidding. extensive boulder fields, screes,
hide in the snow.Their feet are feathered to reduce Even in summertime, it has a and cliffs in a very high plateau,
winter heat loss. thick central ice cap that is almost where Dotterels, Ptarmigan, a
devoid of birdlife. Around it is a few Snow Buntings, Ravens, and
The long, fine-tipped bills spectacular landscape that sees a Golden Eagles breed.
of Dunlin are ideal for picking small range of birds. Bare ground
insects and small worms from provides habitat for Ptarmigans, 4 NORTH PENNINES,
Snow Buntings, and rare Gyr ENGLAND
moss-covered bogs in summer, Falcons and Snowy Owls. Locally,
and for probing in mud for This is rolling moorland with
Pink-footed Geese and Purple
heather and limestone grassland,
feathered worms during winter. Sandpipers breed.
dissected by wooded valleys and
legs
Open moors have few rocky gulleys with tumbling
perches so birds such as streams. Many Golden Plovers,
PTARMIGAN Curlews, Wheatears, Snipe,
Golden Plovers and Skylarks
Meadow Pipits, and Skylarks
sing in flight to claim breed, as well as a few Merlins,
their territorial rights Short-eared Owls, Dunlins,
and attract females. Dippers, Twites, Whinchats,
PURPLE SANDPIPER Stonechats, and Ring Ouzels.
Muscular gizzards
and elongated 2 DOVREFJELL,
intestines allow NORWAY
grouse to swallow This national park has a mix
of bogs, lakes, woodland,
grit to help grind up snowfields, and mountain peaks
the shoots of tough, and plateaux. Here there are
heathery plants. SKYLARK Rough-legged Buzzards, Cranes,
Dotterels, Temminck’s Stints, Red-
necked Phalaropes, Shore Larks,
Bramblings, and Lapland and
Snow Buntings in summer.
CURLEW
Mountains and
moorland in
northern Europe 2
WINTER MOORLAND
Overgrazed moors have little heather and can
degenerate into swathes of acid grassland.
Few birds appear, but Meadow Pipits and
Skylarks will feed on grass seeds and insects
while Curlews take worms from boggy places.
39
INTRODUCTION
HABITAT MIXTURE
With their peaks, high pastures, and valleys, mountainous
areas bring together a variety of habitats within a small
area. From one spot it is possible to see riverside birds,
woodland birds, and those characteristic of grassy pastures
and hedgerows, as well as species that prefer cliffs and COASTAL CLIFFS
crags. Slightly further up the hillside, alpine species can be Several mountain birds also
breed on crags by the sea that
heard or seen flying across the valleys or over the highest
offer safe nesting sites.
peaks. Superimposed upon this natural diversity there are
regional differences. For example, some species, including
BLACK WHEATEAR
various eagles and other birds of prey, are more easterly
Warmer, south-facing stony
and so are found in the Balkans but not within Iberia. Birds slopes and crags in Iberia attract
of prey have also been wiped out of some areas due to this eyecatching wheatear, as
centuries of persecution, although they remain numerous well as Black-eared Wheatears
in Spain. Some species – such as eagles, vultures, buzzards, and Stonechats.
and falcons – occupy different “niches”, exploiting
particular foods and nest sites.This may allow them to
live close together without competing against each other.
Alternatively, it may mean that species remain apart, each CLIFFTOP THRUSH
inhabiting an area that meets its particular requirements. Limestone crags are the
favoured haunt of the
Blackbird-sized Blue Rock
Thrush, which ventures
anywhere from sea level
to high in the mountains.
STUNNING PEAKS
High mountain peaks with deep gorges and
shady valleys have a great range of birds of prey,
many of which nest lower down but move up
each day to hunt over high ground. Cliff faces
have their own unique birds – some move out
to feed on high-altitude grassy meadows.
40
SOUTHERN MOUNTAINS AND CRAGS
WHERE TO WATCH
1 MASSIF CENTRAL, 3 SIERRA DE 5 PUIG MAYOR, 6 EVROS MOUNTAINS,
FRANCE GUADARAMA, SPAIN MAJORCA GREECE
This famous mountainous region in This is a superb area for Black, The mountains and valleys of Greece no longer has the rich
France has seen the reintroduction Griffon, and Egyptian Vultures, as Majorca have some remote and populations of birds of prey that
of Griffon and Black Vultures. It well as eagles and a variety of spectacular sites that attract Black used to be there, but in the
also has natural populations of Red upland species such as the Rock Vultures, which are rare and local. extreme northeast the mountains
Kites, Egyptian Vultures, Short- Thrush, Blue Rock Thrush, Black In summer, many cliffs have attract specially conserved Black
toed, Booted, and Golden Eagles, Redstart, Rock Bunting and Citril Eleonora’s Falcons, Red Kites, Vultures as well as Imperial, Lesser
Eagle Owls, and Alpine Accentors. Finch. The local Black Stork also Ospreys, Blue Rock Thrushes, Black- Spotted, and White-tailed Eagles,
breeds in a few locations within eared Wheatears, Rock Buntings, Lanners, Long-legged Buzzards,
the Sierra de Guadarama. Alpine and Pallid Swifts, and Crag and Levant Sparrowhawks.
Martins. Alpine Accentors only visit
in the wintertime.
Mountainous areas in
southern Europe
ADAPTATIONS
Big, soaring birds are attracted to more
southerly areas rather than northwest Europe,
which lacks the warm, rising air currents that offer
them so much lift.These species have evolved to
make the best use of air currents, including cold
winds on the high tops.This enables them to travel
long distances and search for widely scattered food
(such as animal carcasses) over vast areas – with the
least expenditure of energy.To aid them in this,
they also have exceptional eyesight.
GRIFFON VULTURE IN SOARING FLIGHT The fine bill of the Wallcreeper probes for
insect food in damp recesses, under dark overhangs on
cliff faces, and deep inside shady gorges.
The strong, curved bill of the
Chough can overturn animal droppings
and prise cushions of grass and lichens
from rocks to expose invertebrates.
The exceptionally tough oesophagus
of the Lammergeier has developed in
order to cope with sharp-ended
fragments of shattered bone,
which it feeds on.The bird
drops large bones onto rocks
to break them into pieces small
enough to swallow.
CHOUGH
41
INTRODUCTION
LOWLAND HEATHS
These are habitats for a few specialist
species that require the mixture of open
space and patchy scrub, which is often
maintained by grazing animals and
periodic fires. Dartford Warblers are
resident in such areas while Nightjars
are summer visitors to them. In the
summertime a variety of birds take
advantage of the insect food and
nesting opportunities found in dense
HEATHLAND heather and gorse. Some thickets
Coastal heath bordering an have Nightingales that prefer dense
estuary provides a unique habitat.
vegetation down to ground level, while
open spaces see nesting Stone-curlews
COASTAL DUNES
A lack of water and erosion by the
and Woodlarks, which need bare earth
wind create harsh conditions for to pick up insects from. Dragonflies
most birds. However, Crested breed where there are pools in boggy
Larks feed in the open spaces. valleys and attract hunting Hobbies.
MEDITERRANEAN SCRUB
Mediterranean slopes have bare rocks, patches of short grass, cushions of short, spiny
herbs, and taller, thick, evergreen bushes.This is the “garrigue” or “maquis” habitat,
wonderful for birds such as Rollers, Great Grey Shrikes, and Lesser Kestrels that take
large insects and lizards from the ground. Overhead, many kinds of birds of
prey may be seen, while on the bush tops are shrikes,which are small
bird- and insect eaters. Ground feeders as varied as Red-legged
Partridges, Hoopoes, larks, pipits, and buntings are attracted to
the scrubland while the bushes have an exciting array of small
warblers, mostly restricted to the Mediterranean region in Europe.
There are some habitats that are found in just a few scattered
locations and are home to specific species. For example, patches
of introduced cactus attract Rufous
Bush Robins and rocky gullies
are perfect nesting sites for
Rock Sparrows.
42
LOWLAND HEATH AND MEDITERRANEAN SCRUB
ADAPTATIONS
Enormous pupils allow the Stone-curlew to feed WHERE TO WATCH
at dawn and dusk; its large eyes are ideal for maximum
light gathering.They shrink to pinpoints by day.
The long, slender tail of the Sardinian Warbler
helps it to balance as it tips up to dive head first into
a bush; the tail is also used to warn others
of potential danger.
Big eyes and very
short, wide bills
fringed with bristles
characterize the Red-
necked Nightjar and Nightjar. HEATH AND WOODLAND IN THE NEW FOREST
3 LA CRAU, FRANCE
An area of very dry, stony plains,
with Little Bustards, Pin-tailed
Sandgrouse, Rollers, Stone- SUBALPINE WARBLER
curlews, and various larks.
1 2
BIRD-RICH SCRUB
This bushy habitat is full of flowers and 5 3
insects, so offers up an abundance of
4
food for birds that eat seeds or large
and small insects. The undergrowth also
provides plenty of secure nesting places.
43
INTRODUCTION
44
FARMLAND AND GRASSLAND
WHERE TO WATCH
2 SALISBURY
PLAIN, ENGLAND
This is an exceptional area of
chalk downland, which has
especially large numbers of
Skylarks as well as other
widespread farm birds such as
Yellowhammers and Linnets. It
also attracts some Stone-curlew
and Grey Partridges.
CRESTED LARK
3 TEXEL,
5 BIEBRZA MARSHES,
NETHERLANDS POLAND
A wonderful island to visit all year
This farmed wetland and
round, it sees breeding Black-
grassland region has rare Aquatic
tailed Godwits, Ruffs, and
Warblers and Great Snipes as well
Redshanks on wetter nature
as a great variety of other exciting
reserves in summer. In winter,
species – from Black and White
large numbers of Lapwings,
Storks to Cranes, Corncrakes,
NORTHERN VISITORS Snipe, Oystercatchers, Golden
Greater Spotted Eagles, and
Plovers, Brent, Bean, and White-
Huge numbers of geese from far northern breeding areas, including White-winged Black Terns.
fronted Geese, Wigeon, Mallards,
Pink-footed, Barnacle, and White-fronted Geese, have come to rely Shovelers, other wildfowl, birds
on European farmland in winter – feeding on grass and waste crops. 6 HORTOBAGY,
of prey, and finches, including
Twites, visit the area.
HUNGARY
This is a huge area of farmland
ADAPTATION and semi-natural steppe, which
Skylarks and Calandra Larks have no perches to attracts Red-footed Falcons,
sing from in open fields: they pour out prolonged Great Bustards, Aquatic Warblers,
Rollers, Bee-Eaters, and Lesser
songs from high-level song flights instead. Grey Shrikes in summer. Tens of
Lapwings and Stone-curlews are happy thousands of Cranes pass by on
to adapt to farmland habitats so long as their migration route and White-
tailed Eagles visit in winter.
there is a mixture of pasture on which
TWITES
they can situate their nests, and
bare earth where their
growing chicks can
forage for insects.
Sandgrouse are able
to survive on one drink Grassland areas
a day and they fly huge
distances to get it.They also PIN-TAILED SANDGROUSE 1
carry water to their
nestlings, holding it in their belly feathers. 3
2 5
Geese have changed their eating
habits and now enjoy feasting
on waste crops, such as sugar 6
beet tops and carrots. 4
Choughs feed in old
pastures, probing for
ants with their long,
CHOUGH curved bills.
45
INTRODUCTION
DECIDUOUS WOODS
The character of deciduous woods changes
greatly with the seasons, so offers different
opportunities and challenges to birds.
Deciduous trees lose their leaves in winter
to survive the cold. Insects are abundant
and active in summer, but many of them
survive the winter as cocoons or eggs, or
hibernate, so insect-eating birds are forced
to migrate unless they can turn to seeds in
winter. In contrast, many seed-eating species
are year-round woodland residents.
The gnarled trunks of deciduous
trees have many crevices
for birds to nest in.
PIED FLYCATCHER
Pied Flycatchers need holes for
nesting, most easily found in
mature deciduous trees.
46
FOREST AND WOODLAND
TREECREEPER ADAPTATIONS
The Treecreeper spends its whole life An elongated,
carefully searching tree bark for insects.
backward-pointing
outer toe and a stiff
tail provide the Green
Woodpecker with a sure
grip as it perches on
broad branches.
The stout, dagger-like
bill of the Nuthatch is used
for breaking into nuts and
GREEN
seeds, which it wedges into WOODPECKER
crevices in bark.
A Woodcock’s dead-leaf camouflage
is perfect for nesting on the forest floor.
A Sparrowhawk’s long tail helps it
twist and turn quickly in tight spaces
between trees when chasing prey.
SPARROWHAWK
WHERE TO WATCH
47
INTRODUCTION
ROOSTING WAGTAILS
Pied Wagtails feed on roofs, tarmac-covered footpaths,
car parks, and town centre riverbanks, and each evening
come together in large roosts for warmth and protection.
They often choose ornamental trees for this, but equally
seek out glasshouses and industrial sites in towns.
SUBURBAN SURPRISES
Industrial areas and roads on urban
outskirts often see birds, such as these
Lapwings, flocking in large numbers.
48
GARDENS, PARKS, AND TOWNS
PRIVATE GARDENS
Ordinary suburban and rural
gardens are becoming increasingly
important wildlife havens. If there
are thick shrubberies, flowerbeds
with freshly turned earth, patches
of lawn, and perhaps a few garden
ponds, a suburban area can be
almost as rich as a piece of natural
woodland.These small habitats offer
a range of feeding opportunities for
all kinds of birds, some of which live
permanently in the gardens while others
just visit from nearby woods and streams.
Even the shy Kingfisher and Grey Heron
may make an early morning raid on a goldfish
pond. Gardens are far poorer for birds, however,
if they are too regimented and over-tidy. GARDEN FEEDER
Robins are among many woodland birds that have become garden
inhabitants. They like thick hedges and shrubs, close to pieces of bare
ground and short grass where they can forage for worms and insects.
BERRY EATERS
Many birds eat berries, especially in autumn
when they provide much needed energy.
To attract birds like the Song Thrush, plant
shrubs such as elderberry and cotoneaster. BIRD-TABLES
By placing food on a
bird-table each day we
EXPLOITING THE GARDENER are giving birds regular
Blackbirds and Robins are well known for their meals when natural
bold and fearless behaviour, especially when a food may be lacking. As
gardener is turning over soil and they get a an added bonus, we can
good chance of grabbing a worm. watch them as they eat.
49
INTRODUCTION
WATCHING BIRDS
T here are a vast number of opportunities to birdwatch –
whether you visit a different country specifically for
that purpose, go to a nature reserve, or simply look at the
species that can be found every day in your garden or on
your journey to work.You will find that there are a huge
range of birds to see and the more you look, the more you WINTER ROBIN
will want to learn about the differences there are between In winter, putting out food or leaving apples unpicked on
them so that you can start to identify individual species. a tree will attract Robins and thrushes to your garden.
THE ESSENTIALS
BINOCULARS AND TELESCOPES BINOCULARS Choose binoculars that you can handle
Binoculars are essential for birdwatching.They are easily, and buy the best you can
described by figures, such as 10 x 40 or 8 x 30.The first afford. A camera and
is the magnification while the second is the diameter telescope can also be
of the large lens. Higher magnification means larger useful in the field.
images, but the lenses are also larger, making it harder
to hold the binoculars steady; the field of view is also
narrower and the image duller.You will need to
compromise.There are top-quality binoculars that give
really bright images but they are still heavy and
expensive. It is best to opt for a magnification between
7 and 10. If you want to look at birds far away and need
focusing
more power, consider buying a telescope. It will wheel
magnify 20 or 30 times but you will need a 60 or
80mm wide lens to let in enough light. the “object
lens” described
by its diameter
in millimetres
USING A NOTEBOOK
Notebooks are really invaluable for novice focus wheel TELESCOPE
and experienced birdwatchers alike.
Note down what you see if you want
to keep records at home: it is much adjustable
better than trying to rely on shaky angle
memories later. If you come across objective
a bird that is new to you, or has lens
an unusual plumage, try to take a tripod
description – you will need to look
closely at the bird in order to do SLR CAMERA
this. It is a useful discipline, for use a camera
example, to look at the colour with a long lens
to capture detail
of the bill, legs, and any
special markings.Also write
down the calls you hear and try to
make a few sketches, however rough they are.
50
WATCHING BIRDS
CODE OF CONDUCT
There is one simple rule for birdwatchers to
follow: the welfare of the bird comes first.
It is easy to get carried away, and to inch
forward while trying to see a bird that you
think might be rare or is one that you have
not seen before. It may be tempting to chase
a bird if it starts to move away, or to try
flushing a bird out one last time, but all you
will do is scare it away. Most birds are not
bothered too much by everyday disturbance,
but use your common sense. Don’t disturb
birds while they are at their nests, as you may
put them in danger, and never be tempted to
handle eggs. Keep all types of disturbance to
a minimum – for the sake of the birds, other
people, and your own view.
VIEWING CONDITIONS
Viewing conditions are an
important consideration.
It may seem obvious but
many people forget that
a white bird will look dark
against a bright sky, while
a dark brown bird may look DAWN MISTY MORNING MORNING LIGHT
remarkably pale against Low, weak, misty light with an Mist may make a bird look large Low light may exaggerate
orange glow, which is not good but it hides detail of colour and contrast, but the brightness is
a ploughed field or winter
for revealing detail. pattern, or even shape. perfect for seeing detail.
hedgerow.White gulls lit
by low, evening light may
look orange on the sunlit
side and quite blue on
the shaded side; in strong
sunlight they simply look
brilliant white and dark
grey. Dull light in rain MIDDAY INTO THE SUN EVENING LIGHT
or snow may reveal the Overhead sun can cast surprisingly Looking into bright light makes Lovely soft, warm light, but
deep shadows and “washes out” it difficult to see much more than beware a rather orange cast to
subtleties of their greys
the colours on the upperside. a silhouette, even on a pale bird. many colours.
and whites much better.
USING BINOCULARS
If you see a bird that you want to view close-up,
keep your eyes on it as you lift your binoculars.
USING A TRIPOD
Modern telescopes are short and
need support, preferably on a
good, firm tripod. This is a clumsy,
heavy combination but the reward
is unbelievably close views.
51
INTRODUCTION
CONSERVATION
C onservation is simply wise management, which aims to
maintain or enhance the numbers and variety of wild
species and the habitats on which they depend.The birdlife
in most parts of Europe has undergone dramatic changes
almost everywhere over several centuries: little of Europe is
now “natural”, apart from the far north, some forests,
mountains, and seas. It is therefore difficult to say that the
present birdlife is “as it should be”, and that all change must
be resisted. Most people would, however, agree that we GREAT BUSTARD
should at least try to maintain the variety of birds that we The loss of grassland habitat, particularly to intensive
farming, now threatens the last few thousand Great
do have now. Every effort should be made to ensure that Bustards more severely than ever before.
we do not lose any species from the European avifauna.
THREATENED HABITATS
Conserving birds is not usually a case of preventing
persecution or over-hunting. Most threats arise because birds’
habitats are being damaged or destroyed. No wild creature can
survive unless its needs for food, breeding sites, and safe
refuges from predators are met. Protecting habitats usually
involves planning and managing human activity, especially
farming, forestry, drainage of marshes, and other large-scale
changes. Local developments such as building roads and
airports or urban housing expansion also affect the
CROWDED COASTS habitats. Food and habitat protection is often a
Waders such as Redshanks use estuaries and other coastal political matter.A clear example of this is the
habitats. Unfortunately for them, coasts are also ideal for
various developments, from ports and industry to sport and
farming and fishery policies, which affect
leisure. Even people using beaches may disturb feeding or countryside birds and seabirds across
roosting flocks. Estuary birds face many threats. the whole of Europe.
DEGRADED RIVERS
Many rivers are dredged and
straightened, which removes the
habitat for riverside birds that prefer
muddy shallows, sheltered bays, or
beds of reed and sedges. Erosion eats
into banks used by Kingfishers, while
pollution, especially the acidification
of rivers, affects the food supply –
from tiny aquatic invertebrates to fish.
An increased frequency of summer
drought also affects river birds.
GLOBAL WARMING
Wading birds, wildfowl, gulls, and terns that use low-
lying sea coasts and nearby lagoons for feeding and
nesting face severe threats from the effects of global
warming and sea-level rise. This presents many
challenges to coastal conservation, not least finding
sensitive ways to protect the coast.
52
FINDING SOLUTIONS
Conservation is complicated, and
to achieve a political solution to
some of the more intractable
problems conservationists must
have hard facts and figures.There
is no substitute for good, reliable
research to give a solid and well-
respected backing to any
conservation argument. Once
the problems and their causes are
understood, it is possible to have
a more organized and objective
approach to finding practical and RADIO TAGGING
economic solutions which other This Black Grouse is being fitted CONSERVATION
with a minute radio transmitter so GROUPS
people, such as farmers, foresters, and
that its movements can be followed.
gamekeepers, then put into practice. Black Grouse have declined rapidly Bird and habitat
so finding out more about them and
their problems is essential if solutions
conservation groups
are to be found. worldwide work together
in a global federation called
CORNCRAKE
In some countries, farmers are paid to BirdLife International. Each
maintain uncut field corners that provide early country has a BirdLife “partner”.
spring cover for Corncrakes, and to continue growing The largest is the RSPB in the
hay and cutting it late in the season. Such schemes are UK.The RSPB works for a
essential for the bird’s survival.
healthy environment that is rich
GANNET PROBLEMS in birds and other wildlife. It relies
Pollution and discarded waste, on the support and generosity
especially at sea, may cause of others to make a difference.
unexpected problems for birds. Without members and other
Gannets build their nests out supporters it would lack the
of discarded nylon twine and
other debris that can entangle
finance to do its work.When it
their growing chicks. Greater does find and advocate solutions
awareness and improved rules to problems faced by birds in the
for the disposal of waste at ports countryside, it relies on the
rather than overboard at sea willingness of decision-makers,
would help solve such problems.
landowners, and others to take
RECORD KEEPING
notice, and act upon its advice.
Conservation in Europe relies on collating facts and There are many other bird
figures, following trends, and identifying sudden conservation bodies, bird clubs,
changes in numbers and distributions of birds. and local groups that also play a
This has a proud tradition of extensive amateur vital role in conservation. Contact
involvement, as thousands of people add their own
records to the national and international data upon
your country’s BirdLife partner
which our collective knowledge depends. for further details of societies
and groups near you
if you would like
to get involved.
53
SPECIES
GUIDE
DIVERS AND GREBES
GRACEFUL DISPLAY
Black-necked Grebes show off
their dramatic plumage in court-
ship displays; the sexes look alike.
55
DIVERS AND GREBES
hump-backed
ADULT (WINTER)
white
ADULT (SUMMER) face
white-speckled
pale dusky back
outstretched face
head
ADULT (SUMMER)
Length 50 – 60cm (20 – 231⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 1.06 –1.16m (31⁄ 2 – 33⁄ 4 ft) Weight 1.2 –1.6kg (23⁄ 4 – 31⁄ 2 lb)
Social Winter flocks Lifespan Up to 20 years Status Vulnerable
56
DIVERS AND GREBES
dark cap
grey head
outstretched
head held low bill held
level
I n summer, few
birds can match the
exquisite patterning of the Black-throated Diver.
ADULT (SUMMER)
Length 60 –70cm (231⁄ 2 – 28in) Wingspan 1.1–1.3m (31⁄ 2 – 41⁄ 4 ft) Weight 2 – 3kg (41⁄ 2 – 61⁄ 2 lb)
Social Small summer flocks Lifespan Up to 20 years Status Vulnerable
57
DIVERS AND GREBES
trailing slender
legs wings
ADULT
(WINTER) nape darker ADULT (MOULTING TO WINTER) black
than back head
IN FLIGHT evenly white-
barred back chequered back
dark collar
striped
white collar
JUVENILE ADULT (SUMMER)
Length 70 – 80cm (28 – 32in) Wingspan 1.27–1.47m (41⁄ 4 – 43⁄ 4 ft) Weight 3 – 4kg (61⁄ 2 – 83⁄ 4 lb)
Social Solitary Lifespan 10 – 20 years Status Secure†
58
DIVERS AND GREBES
buff foreneck
trailing
feet
ADULT dark
(WINTER) wings
ADULT
(SUMMER)
L ittle Grebes are small, dark, short-billed, and round as a ball, their
near lack of tail rendering them especially buoyant on freshwater FLIGHT: flies little, usually very low, skittering over
rivers, lakes, and ponds.Their loud, trilling or whinnying calls ring water on small wings.
around marshes in summer. In winter, they often move
to larger waters, less prone to freeze, and more rarely
to the coast.They may then mix loosely with other
species of waterfowl but tend to keep in little groups,
slightly dispersed, in their own corner of the lake.
VOICE High, loud, rapid trill that fades away;
silent in winter.
NESTING Floating mound of wet weed, anchored
to stem or branch; 4–6 eggs, which the bird covers
if it leaves the nest; 1 brood;April–June.
FEEDING Dives for small fish, aquatic insects, and ALERT ON WATER
molluscs, often diving under with a little leap and When alarmed, the Little Grebe looks larger-necked and less dumpy, and
reappearing like a cork. in winter, can look surprisingly like a Black-necked Grebe.
Length 25 – 29cm (10 –111⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 40 – 45cm (16 –18in) Weight 100 –120g (35⁄ 8 – 4oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan 10 –15 years Status Secure†
59
DIVERS AND GREBES
white face
IN FLIGHT
round head
dark chestnut
dark neck and breast
whitish cheeks around eye ADULT (SUMMER)
striped
cheeks
dusky grey
on foreneck
yellow
on bill
ADULT
(WINTER)
JUVENILE
Length 40 – 46cm (16 –18in) Wingspan 77– 85cm (30 – 34in) Weight 700 – 900g (25 – 32oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Secure
60
DIVERS AND GREBES
white face
drooping neck
unique ruff
legs dagger-like
below bold white pink bill
body level wing patches slender
dull, dark
neck
ADULT back
(WINTER)
white neck
and breast
IN FLIGHT
ADULT
(SUMMER)
white over
eye
striped
head
pale greyish
body pink bill
tailless dark back
shape white
breast
JUVENILE
Length 46 – 51cm (18 – 20in) Wingspan 85 – 90cm (34 – 35in) Weight 800 –1000g (29 – 36oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan 10 –15 years Status Secure
61
DIVERS AND GREBES
yellow wedge
on black head
straight, short,
rust-red pale-tipped bill
flanks
dumpy shape
white patch
on small rust-red neck
wings
ADULT (SUMMER)
IN FLIGHT
ADULT
(SUMMER)
well-defined
white cheeks black and
pale bill tip white head
large white
cheeks
white
flanks
white small whitish
foreneck spot in front
of eye
white
foreneck
ADULT and breast
IMMATURE (1ST WINTER) (WINTER)
Length 31– 38cm (12 –15in) Wingspan 59 – 65cm (23 – 26in) Weight 375 – 450g (13 –16oz)
Social Pairs/Small flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Secure†
62
DIVERS AND GREBES
red eye
fan-shaped yellow
or bronze ear tufts
coppery
red flanks
fine, slightly
white patch uptilted bill
on slim
trailing wings black neck
legs
ADULT
(SUMMER)
IN FLIGHT
ADULT
(SUMMER)
uptilted
grey
bill
foreneck
ADULT
JUVENILE (WINTER)
Length 28 – 34cm (11–131⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 56 – 60cm (22 – 231⁄ 2 in) Weight 250 – 350g (9 –13oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Secure
63
PETRELS AND SHEARWATERS
STORM PETREL
FULMAR
Swallow-like in its actions, the
The tubular nostrils are easy to see on the
Storm Petrel feeds on tiny plankton
thick bill of this Fulmar, as it soars in the wind
and oily waste out at sea.
above a coastal cliff.
64
PETRELS AND SHEARWATERS
hooked bill
grey wingtips
short, thick neck
pale patch all-grey; lacks
Herring Gull’s
mottled grey white patch
upperwings
fade browner
stiff, straight
wings
ADULT
weak legs
(unable to stand)
IN FLIGHT pale grey rump ADULT
and tail
SIMILAR SPECIES
OCCURRENCE
contrasted white CORY’S SHEARWATER Breeds in NW Europe on cliffs,
tail and black see p.66
earth ledges, and even buildings
wingtips darker
browner or, where abundant, on grassy
head
above banks, usually close to sea. Out on
open sea, sometimes mouths of
estuaries or smaller bays.
HERRING GULL
see p.209 Seen in the UK
J F M A M J J A S O N D
Length 45 – 50cm (18 – 20in) Wingspan 1–1.12m (31⁄ 4 – 33⁄ 4 ft) Weight 700 – 900g (25 – 32oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan 20 – 30 years Status Secure
65
PETRELS AND SHEARWATERS
Cory’s Shearwater
dark brown above
long, tapered,
slightly rounded
wings
white
pale bill underwings
slightly bowed
wings
SIMILAR SPECIES
OCCURRENCE
paler head dark Mostly out at sea, but sometimes
dark cap
tail-band in broad bays or close inshore off
headlands and islands. Outside
breeding season, in western
white approaches off Ireland, N France,
collar
HERRING GULL and SW England.
immature, similar
in flight; white rump; less GREAT SHEARWATER Seen in the UK
stiff-winged flight; see p.209 see p.405 J F M A M J J A S O N D
Length 45 – 56cm (18 – 22in) Wingspan 1–1.25m (31⁄ 4 – 4 ft) Weight 700 – 800g (25 – 29oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan Up to 20 years Status Vulnerable†
66
PETRELS AND SHEARWATERS
Manx Shearwater
black cap
stiff wings
white
throat
silvery white
below
blackish upperparts;
looks browner in dark cap
IN FLIGHT strong sun
N esting sites of
Manx Shearwaters are
relatively localized, nearly all on islands; these seabirds are commonly FLIGHT: fast, especially downwind, with long,
seen on surrounding seas and are sometimes very numerous, especially swerving glides, banking on one wingtip then wheeling
in the evenings as they gather prior to going ashore. In autumn, large over onto other; wingbeats fast, stiff, flickering.
numbers are seen close to the shore during gales and a
few are blown inland each year. Like other shearwaters
and storm petrels, they only go to the nest in the
cover of darkness, but many are still caught and killed
by gulls.They are ungainly on land, moving with a
shuffle, using legs, wings, and bill to scramble over
rough ground.
VOICE Loud, strangled wailing and chortling sounds
at night around breeding colony.
NESTING Uses rabbit or Puffin burrow or similar
tunnel, or hole in scree; 1 egg; 1 brood;April–July. FLAP AND GLIDE
FEEDING Flocks gather over fish or small squid, In calm air, shearwaters fly low over the water with many more deep
diving from surface or after short plunge from air. wingbeats and short, flat glides.
Length 30 – 38cm (12 –15in) Wingspan 76 – 82cm (30 – 32in) Weight 350 – 450g (13 –16oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan 25 – 30 years Status Localized†
67
PETRELS AND SHEARWATERS
broad-based wings
taper and sweep back large white
rump
white line along
underwings round head with
small, “tubed” bill
sooty black
body
IN FLIGHT broad,
rounded
tail
all-dark
upperwings
Length 14 –17cm (51⁄ 2 – 61⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 36 – 39cm (14 –151⁄ 2 in) Weight 23 – 29g (13⁄ 16 –11⁄ 16 oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan Up to 20 years Status Localized†
68
PETRELS AND SHEARWATERS
Leach’s Petrel
sharp-winged,
tern-like shape dark underwings
“V”-shaped pale panel on
white rump upperwings
with dark
central line
notch in tail
hard to see
long, angled,
IN FLIGHT sooty brown
arched wings
back
forked
tail
angular
shape
Length 18 – 21cm (7– 81⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 43 – 48cm (17–19in) Weight 40 – 50g (17⁄ 16 –13⁄ 4 oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan Up to 24 years Status Localized†
69
GANNETS, CORMORANTS, AND PELICANS
GANNETS, CORMORANTS,
AND PELICANS
DENSE FLOCKS
White Pelicans feed and rest together in tightly packed
flocks, which look wonderful when they take flight.
FEEDING FRENZY
Gannets watch each other’s
vivid white plumage from great
distances and can quickly home
in on any good feeding spot.
70
GANNETS, CORMORANTS, AND PELICANS
Gannet dagger-
like bill
blackish
body with
long, narrow yellow-buff white spots
wings head
ADULT
protruding head
narrow,
pointed white
tail plumage
IMMATURE
(1ST WINTER) IMMATURE
piebald
ADULT plumage
turns white
white with age
band
above
tail
IMMATURE
IN FLIGHT
black wingtips
Length 85 – 89cm (34 – 35in) Wingspan 1.65 –1.8m (51⁄ 2 – 6ft) Weight 2.8 – 3.2kg (61⁄ 4 –7lb)
Social Flocks Lifespan 16 – 20 years Status Localized
71
GANNETS, CORMORANTS, AND PELICANS
broad wings
I n summer, Cormorants
are unmistakable, with
long, pale head plumes ADULT
(SUMMER) ADULT (SUMMER)
and bold facial colours;
they have a round white long,
thigh patch in spring. broad tail FLIGHT: strong, often high; head outstretched, long
They are duller in winter, but tail, rather broad wings with regular beats; long glides.
retain a distinct character, typified by their habit of perching with
half-open wings, or swimming with back almost awash, neck
upright, and bill angled upwards. Equally at home on salt- or fresh
water, Cormorants are widespread and familiar in much of Europe.
VOICE Growling and cackling at nests and communal
roosts, otherwise a quiet bird.
NESTING Bulky nest of SUBSPECIES
sticks in tree and on cliff bold white
ledge, with white splashings head plumes
beneath; 3 or 4 eggs; 1 brood; in spring
April–May.
P. c. sinensis
FEEDING Catches fish in long (mainland
underwater dive from surface; Europe, PERCHING
brings larger ones to surface E England) Cormorants have a distinctive perching stance, with half-open
before swallowing them. wings, upright neck, and bill angled upwards.
Length 80 –100cm (32 – 39in) Wingspan 1.3 –1.6m (41⁄ 4 – 51⁄ 4 ft) Weight 2 – 2.5kg (41⁄ 2 – 51⁄ 2 lb)
Social Flocks Lifespan 15 – 20 years Status Secure
72
GANNETS, CORMORANTS, AND PELICANS
dark brown
JUVENILE
plumage
slim, slightly
narrow hooked bill
snaky neck
wings
long tail
brown
below
ADULT
long, slim
body
IMMATURE
slender
head and oily green-black rounded
neck plumage crown
IN FLIGHT
ADULT
(SUMMER)
A lthough sometimes
solitary, Shags tend to
breed in sizeable groups and
ADULT (WINTER)
Length 65 – 80cm (26 – 32in) Wingspan 90 –105cm (35 – 41in) Weight 1.75 – 2.25kg (33⁄ 4 – 5lb)
Social Large flocks Lifespan Up to 15 years Status Secure
73
BITTERNS AND HERONS
Familiy Ardeidae
HERONS
The larger herons are long-necked and elegant,
using skill and patience when searching for prey.
Although primarily fish-eaters, they eat almost
anything they can catch. Egrets are generally
smaller (although the Great White Egret is very
big) and mostly white. Some have long, elegant
plumes in the breeding season. Herons and
egrets develop bright bill and leg colours for
short periods in spring and the facial skin may
even “blush” brightly during courtship.
Most are social, breeding in colonies, but often
fishing alone. The Cattle Egret feeds around live-
stock and on rubbish tips, as well as on marshes, REEDBED SKULKER
and flies to roost each evening in spectacular, Bitterns need water within reeds so that they can ambush unsuspecting
flickering white flocks. eels and other fish without coming out into the open.
BIG TOES
A Purple Heron in flight shows
its deeply coiled neck and
remarkably long toes, an
adaptation to life in a reedbed.
74
BITTERNS AND HERONS
streaked
long toes neck
trail in flight
black stripe
IN FLIGHT
short legs
with very
long toes
Length 69 – 81cm (27– 32in) Wingspan 1.25 –1.35m (4 – 41⁄ 2 ft) Weight 0.9 –1.1kg (2 – 21⁄ 2 lb)
Social Solitary Lifespan 10 –12 years Status Vulnerable†
75
BITTERNS AND HERONS
bright buff
MALE
neck JUVENILE
IN FLIGHT streaked
brown
back
streaked
below
pale wing
patch
FEMALE
MALE
SIMILAR SPECIES
OCCURRENCE
SQUACCO HERON NIGHT HERON juvenile, Found from April to October in
juvenile, similar similar to juvenile;
to juvenile; see p.77 S and C Europe. Occupies reedbeds
see p.79 by rivers and marshes and also
white wings larger, darker, much smaller pools and flooded
pale head and spotted willow thickets. Rare spring
migrant in UK.
Seen in the UK
J F M A M J J A S O N D
Length 33 – 38cm (13 –15in) Wingspan 49 – 58cm (191⁄ 2 – 23in) Weight 140 –150g (5 – 51⁄ 2 oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Vulnerable†
76
BITTERNS AND HERONS
grey wings
white
forehead
IN FLIGHT
short,
pale spots on yellow thick
back and tinge bill
wings
yellow legs
(red in spring)
streaked
chest
ADULT
JUVENILE
Length 58 – 65cm (23 – 26in) Wingspan 90 –100cm (35 – 39in) Weight 600 – 800g (21– 29oz)
Social Roosts and breeds in flocks Lifespan 10 –15 years Status Declining
77
BITTERNS AND HERONS
yellow
rich buff looks all-white bill, reddish
on back in flight at long in spring
range
SUMMER
white body
and wings
Length 45 – 50cm (18 – 20in) Wingspan 82 – 95cm (32 – 37in) Weight 300 – 400g (11–14oz)
Social Feeds and roosts in flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Secure
78
BITTERNS AND HERONS
Squacco Heron
long, streaked
head plumes
white wings
tawny-buff
back
blue-grey bill
neat, tapered with dark tip
ADULT oval shape
(SUMMER)
pale forewings
streaked
head and
neck
IN FLIGHT
dull ochre-
brown back
heavily streaked
breast (streaks
softer on juvenile)
ADULT
ADULT (SUMMER)
(WINTER)
SIMILAR SPECIES
OCCURRENCE
LITTLE BITTERN 32; darker CATTLE EGRET Mostly in Mediterranean region in
see p.76 back see p.78
summer, in all kinds of freshwater
swamps, from weedy riversides to
reedbeds and extensive floods and
larger and
black much whiter marshes. Only rare spring vagrant
wingtips farther north.
Seen in the UK
J F M A M J J A S O N D
Length 40 – 49cm (16 –191⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 71– 86 cm (28 – 34in) Weight 230 – 350g (8 –13oz)
Social Loose flocks Lifespan 5 –10 years Status Vulnerable
79
BITTERNS AND HERONS
snaky neck
slightly
bowed
wings
pointed
SUMMER breast
fan of plumes
IN FLIGHT plumes WINTER
over tail
black legs
SUMMER
Length 55 – 65cm (22 – 26in) Wingspan 88 –106cm (35 – 42in) Weight 400 – 600g (14 – 21oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Secure
80
BITTERNS AND HERONS
yellow bill,
often dark
at tip
SUMMER
IN FLIGHT
yellowish
or blackish
legs with
dark feet
WINTER
Length 85 –100cm (34 – 39in) Wingspan 1.45 –1.7m (43⁄ 4 – 51⁄ 2 ft) Weight 1–1.5kg (21⁄ 4 – 31⁄ 4 lb)
Social Small flocks Lifespan 10 –15 years Status Secure
81
BITTERNS AND HERONS
no crest
dagger-like,
withdrawn yellow, orange,
head spotted or pink bill (dull
foreneck except in spring)
black spots on
white foreneck
broad, strongly
arched wings
pale grey
body
JUVENILE
grey-black
ADULT
wingtips
IN FLIGHT
long legs
ADULT
FLIGHT: direct, on broad, strongly arched wings,
head withdrawn, feet trailing; also higher, or diving
down from height with aerobatic twists and turns.
Length 90 – 98cm (35 – 39in) Wingspan 1.75 –1.95m (53⁄ 4 – 61⁄ 2 ft) Weight 1.6 – 2kg (31⁄ 2 – 41⁄ 2 lb)
Social Solitary/Small flocks Lifespan Up to 25 years Status Secure
82
BITTERNS AND HERONS
steel-grey
midwing arched wings
patch narrow at base long, slim,
spear-like brown
bill body paler
neck
reddish underwing snaky head
and neck
ADULT
ADULT
rich tawny
underparts JUVENILE
Length 70 – 90cm (28 – 35in) Wingspan 1.1–1.45m (31⁄ 2 – 43⁄ 4 ft) Weight 1–1.5kg (21⁄ 4 – 31⁄ 4 lb)
Social Solitary Lifespan Up to 23 years Status Vulnerable
83
STORKS/FLAMINGOS
STORKS
O F THE TWO SPECIES OF STORK in Europe,
one species, the White Stork, is able to
live close to people, exploiting buildings and
Both are migrants, spending the winter far south
in Africa. White Storks migrate in huge flocks,
creating exciting birdwatching as they cross the
electricity pylons as nesting places and feeding Mediterranean at the narrowest point, as they
extensively on refuse tips. It is, however, under must glide and soar to save energy and can only
pressure from the destruction of freshwater gain the benefit of rising air over land. Black
habitats and the spread of intensive agriculture. Storks may migrate alone or in smaller groups,
The Black Stork is, in contrast, a forest bird and but can be seen with other large migrants, such
often nests on remote cliffs. as eagles and kites, over the sea, or through
mountain passes. They may be forced down
temporarily by poor weather.
FROG FINDER
The Black Stork feeds on all kinds of small
creatures, such as frogs, found in shallow
water or on wet meadows.
Family Phoenicopteridae
FLAMINGOS
T HIS FAMILY OF EXTRAORDINARY birds
includes very few species, scattered world-
wide, and only one, the Greater Flamingo, is
Nesting colonies are on very low islands, each
nest being built up from the mud: nests are
vulnerable to flooding, or to falls in water level
found in Europe. It breeds in just a few large that allow predators to reach the colony. The
colonies, including one at the Camargue in flamingos may rear very few young for several
southern France and one in southern Spain, but years but periodically have a “boom” year that
is regularly seen in sizeable flocks at a number maintains their numbers.Young birds congregate
of other shallow, salty lagoons around the in dense “crèches” and later tend to gather around
Mediterranean, its only habitat type. the outer fringes of large flocks.
SPECTACULAR DISPLAY
Greater Flamingos gather together
and raise their heads high in
synchronized “marching” displays.
84
STORKS
outstretched
head
white body,
often soiled
black rear
wings
ADULT
IN FLIGHT
trailing ADULT
legs
ADULT
O ne of Europe’s
largest and most
boldly patterned birds,
the White Stork creates a
spectacular sight when it gathers in thousands on
migration to make the narrowest sea crossings
possible, at Gibraltar and Istanbul.Although still
widespread, it is declining in much of its range as
farming becomes ever more intense and wetlands
drier or more polluted. Reintroduction schemes
have helped in northwest Europe but leave the
origin of some western vagrants in some doubt.
VOICE Silent, but rattles bill loudly at nest.
NESTING Large, bulky nest of sticks on pole, tower,
or roof of tall house, or in tree; 2–4 eggs; 1 brood;
April–June. PERCHING AT NEST
FEEDING Catches various aquatic insects, small White Storks often build their nest on rooftops, the size of the nests
rodents, frogs and toads, and small fish in damp places rendering them visible at great range. The birds are typically seen
or shallow water. standing erect at their rooftop nests.
Length 0.95 –1.1m (3 – 31⁄ 2 ft) Wingspan 1.8 – 2.18m (6 –71⁄ 4 ft) Weight 2.5 – 4.5kg (51⁄ 2 –10lb)
Social Migrates in flocks Lifespan Up to 25 years Status Vulnerable
85
STORKS
white belly
ADULT
IN FLIGHT
long red
legs
dull greenish dull greenish
black back bill
paler legs
ADULT
flat wings
while gliding
Length 90 –105cm (35 – 41in) Wingspan 1.1–1.45m (31⁄ 2 – 43⁄ 4 ft) Weight 2.5 – 3kg (51⁄ 2 – 61⁄ 2 lb)
Social Small flocks Lifespan Up to 20 years Status Rare
86
STORKS
ADULT JUVENILE
IN FLIGHT
thick spoon-shaped
black legs black bill,
tipped yellow
all-white
underwings
ADULT
ADULT
IMMATURE
Length 80 – 93cm (32 – 37in) Wingspan 1.2 –1.35m (4 – 41⁄ 2 ft) Weight 1–1.5kg (21⁄ 4 – 31⁄ 4 lb)
Social Small flocks Lifespan 25 – 30 years Status Endangered
87
FLAMINGOS
Greater Flamingo
whitish to pale
black wingtips
red patch on pink plumage
narrow wings
outstretched neck
ADULT
bright pink bill
IN FLIGHT with black tip
greyish extremely
body grey long, pale long neck
bill pink legs
dark grey
legs
IMMATURE ADULT
Length 1.2 –1.45m (4 – 43⁄ 4 ft) Wingspan 1.4 –1.7m (41⁄ 2 – 51⁄ 2 ft) Weight 3 – 4kg (61⁄ 2 – 83⁄ 4 lb)
Social Large flocks Lifespan Up to 20 years Status Localized
88
WILDFOWL
Family Anatidae
WILDFOWL
T HIS LARGE GROUP OF water birds splits
into clear groups, with a few “in between”
species. They have webbed feet, rather short but
specialized bills, and swim well, although many
spend much of their time on dry land.
DUCKS
The two main groups are surface feeders (or
dabbling ducks) and diving ducks. The former
feed on land or from the water surface (sieving
food through their bills, gleaning grain, plucking
vegetation), sometimes tipping over (“upending”) SEA DUCK
The Eider is a marine bird in the
but rarely diving. The diving ducks feed beneath north and west of Europe, feeding
the surface, diving as they swim (not plunging largely on seabed shellfish.
from the air): some are animal feeders, others
vegetarian; some species feed at night.
SHELDUCKS
A few large species fall between ducks and
geese, with an easy walk and rather long legs
and neck, but in other respects they are more
THROBBING WINGS
like the true ducks. The Mute Swan makes a unique
SWANS humming noise with its wings
GEESE European swans are while flying.
Geese are mostly large and terrestrial, feeding on all-white when adult
dry land or marshes but returning to water (a lake (elsewhere there are black and white species).
or the sea) each night for a safe roost. They are They are longer-necked than the geese, tending
social, flying in large flocks with loud, evocative to be more aquatic, but also feed extensively on
calls – among the finest sights in Europe in winter. drier ground, often in mixed flocks.
LAND OR WATER
Ducks like Wigeon feed on grassy
areas and in shallow water, easily
slipping between the two. They
are highly gregarious.
89
WILDFOWL
outstretched all-white
neck plumage
JUVENILE
ADULT
relatively long,
pointed tail
SHELTERED
YOUNG
Small cygnets seek
shelter and refuge
between the wings
of a parent swan.
OCCURRENCE
SIMILAR SPECIES Many breed on park lakes and
other small pools, others on
BEWICK’S SWAN wedge-shaped natural lakes, reservoirs, and
see p.92 head
rivers, almost throughout Europe;
black and black
yellow bill and in W Europe, commonly seen on
yellow sheltered sea coasts and marshes.
bill NEST May join other swans feeding on
The nest is a large mound of flat, open fields.
vegetation built at the water’s
WHOOPER SWAN
edge. The female lays up to Seen in the UK
smaller see p.91 J F M A M J J A S O N D
8 eggs and incubates them.
Length 1.4 –1.6m (41⁄ 2 – 51⁄ 4 ft) Wingspan 2.08 – 2.38m (63⁄ 4 –73⁄ 4 ft) Weight 10 –12kg (22 – 26lb)
Social Small flocks Lifespan 15 – 20 years Status Secure
90
WILDFOWL
slender
neck
ADULT
(TAKING OFF) long neck
black
long, flat tip
ADULT all-white
forehead plumage
IN FLIGHT and bill
short tail
greyish horizontal,
body pinkish or creamy,
black-tipped bill
short legs
JUVENILE
Length 1.4 –1.6m (41⁄ 2 – 51⁄ 4 ft) Wingspan 2.05 – 2.35m (63⁄ 4 –73⁄ 4 ft) Weight 9 –11kg (20 – 24lb)
Social Flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Secure
91
WILDFOWL
all-white
IN FLIGHT tightly closed plumage
wings dull greyish
dark legs, body
rarely
yellow short,
square
tail
IMMATURE
ADULT
SIMILAR SPECIES
OCCURRENCE
WHOOPER SWAN longer bill, Breeds in N Siberia. In winter, moves
see p.91 more yellow orange
on bill to lowlands of W Europe, mostly
agricultural land, usually in
traditional areas, occupied year after
YELLOW BILL year. In some places, concentrates
larger Any swan with yellow on the base on reserves where it is fed.
of the bill will be a wild migrant to
MUTE SWAN western Europe: a Bewick’s or a Seen in the UK
larger see p.90 J F M A M J J A S O N D
Whooper Swan.
Length 1.15 –1.27m (33⁄ 4 – 41⁄ 4 ft) Wingspan 1.8 – 2.1m (6 –7ft) Weight 5 – 6.5kg (11–141⁄ 4 lb)
Social Flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Localized
92
WILDFOWL
pink bill
with dark
black bars tip
on belly
JUVENILE
ADULT
Length 65 –78cm (26 – 31in) Wingspan 1.3 –1.65m (41⁄ 4 – 51⁄ 2 ft) Weight 1.9 – 2.5kg (41⁄ 4 – 51⁄ 2 lb)
Social Flocks Lifespan 15 – 20 years Status Secure
93
WILDFOWL
IN FLIGHT
yellow-orange
legs
Length 66 – 84cm (26 – 33in) Wingspan 1.47–1.75m (43⁄ 4 – 53⁄ 4 ft) Weight 2.6 – 3.2kg (53⁄ 4 –7lb)
Social Flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Secure
94
WILDFOWL
white-barred, pale
grey back (browner,
pale grey less neatly barred small bill with
broad wings on juvenile) pink band
white
tail tip
ADULT
IN FLIGHT
ADULT
ADULT
Length 64 –76cm (25 – 30in) Wingspan 1.37–1.61m (41⁄ 2 – 51⁄ 4 ft) Weight 2.5 – 2.7kg (51⁄ 2 – 6lb)
Social Large flocks Lifespan 10 – 20 years Status Secure
95
WILDFOWL
pale, plain
brown-grey plumage
(less neatly barred
outstretched on juvenile)
ADULT large pale
head
body
IN FLIGHT
pink legs
(rarely orange)
pale underwings
ADULT
ADULT
SIMILAR SPECIES
PINK-FOOTED GOOSE darker head
see p.95
darker
smaller head
orange
darker legs
grey on FEEDING
wings BEAN GOOSE The Greylag Goose, like all grey geese, has a horizontal, head-down
see p.94
posture when feeding and shows a striking white rear.
Length 74 – 84cm (29 – 33in) Wingspan 1.49 –1.68m (5 – 51⁄ 2 ft) Weight 2.9 – 3.7kg (61⁄ 2 – 81⁄ 4 lb)
Social Flocks Lifespan 15 – 20 years Status Secure
96
WILDFOWL
swan-shaped, brown
body (juvenile duller) pale
breast
IN FLIGHT
Length 90 –110cm (35 – 43in) Wingspan 1.5 –1.8m (5 – 6ft) Weight 4.3 – 5kg (91⁄ 2 –11lb)
Social Flocks Lifespan 20 – 25 years Status Localized
97
WILDFOWL
glossy
pale grey black neck
wings and chest
ADULT
ADULT
IN FLIGHT blue-grey back with
black and white bars
(irregular on juvenile)
strongly contrasted
wings and underside
white
underside
ADULT
Length 58 –70cm (23 – 28in) Wingspan 1.32 –1.45m (41⁄ 4 – 43⁄ 4 ft) Weight 1.5 – 2kg (31⁄ 4 – 41⁄ 2 lb)
Social Flocks Lifespan Up to 18 years Status Localized
98
WILDFOWL
on neck (absent
pale bars across on juvenile)
wings
dark grey-brown
upperparts
black chest
JUVENILE
brown
uniform wings underside
bold white
stern
ADULT black legs
(DARK-
BELLIED)
IN FLIGHT
ADULT
(DARK-BELLIED)
Length 56 – 61cm (22 – 24in) Wingspan 1.1–1.21m (3 1⁄ 2 – 4ft) Weight 1.3 –1.6kg (23⁄ 4 – 31⁄ 2 lb)
Social Flocks Lifespan 12 –15 years Status Localized
99
WILDFOWL
IN FLIGHT
broad orange
band around FEMALE
chest tawny orange
pink legs band around
foreparts
MALE
OCCURRENCE
SIMILAR SPECIES Widespread as breeding and
wintering bird on coasts but
MALLARD 3 yellow only locally in Mediterranean.
similar to 32; bill
see p.101 dark Mostly found on sandy or muddy
greyer green shores, especially sheltered
body head estuaries, with some on
freshwater lakes, reservoirs, or
flooded pits well inland.
GRAZING DUCKS
Seen in the UK
Pairs of Shelducks may sometimes be found feeding around the shores of
J F M A M J J A S O N D
lakes and reservoirs.
Length 58 – 65cm (23 – 26in) Wingspan 1.1–1.33m (31⁄ 2 – 41⁄ 4 ft) Weight 0.85 –1.4kg (13⁄ 4 – 3lb)
Social Flocks Lifespan 5 –15 years Status Secure
100
WILDFOWL
brown
Mallard head
blue speculum
MALE
white
underwings brown
bill
MALE (SUMMER) becomes
green browner
head
white FEMALE streaked brown
tail body
purple-blue, yellow bill
white-edged
curly central white
speculum
FEMALE tail feathers neck-ring
brown breast
dark
belly
IN FLIGHT
T he most widespread
and familiar of all the
ducks, this is the one most often MALE (WINTER)
seen in town parks, coming for bread on
lakes or on the riverside: but there are also many that are truly wild
and shy.The different breeds of the farmyard duck are the domestic FLIGHT: strong, fast; wingbeats mostly below body
forms of the Mallard.They vary from very dark brown to all-white. level; often in groups.
The status of the wild form is
obscured by the release of thousands
bred for shooting.
VOICE Male whistles quietly;
female has loud, raucous quark quark.
NESTING Down-lined nest on
ground or in raised sites; 9–13 eggs;
1 brood; January–August.
FEEDING Takes small aquatic
invertebrates, seeds, roots, shoots,
and grain from shallows while DUCKLINGS
upending or dabbling, or from Mallard ducklings follow the mother to water. They stay
dry ground. under her care until they are able to take care of themselves. OCCURRENCE
Nests practically anywhere within
SIMILAR SPECIES reach of almost any kind of water,
from towns to remote moorland
GADWALL 2 bluish bigger bill pools and northern lakes, almost
similar to 2; forewing
see p.102 grey throughout Europe. In winter,
longer bill
neck more western, often on estuarine
salt marshes but less so on open
SHOVELER 2similar to 2; sea. Mostly feeds on arable fields
see p.104
and muddy margins of lakes.
white orange
bill sides PINTAIL2similar Seen in the UK
wing patch to 2; see p.103 J F M A M J J A S O N D
Length 50 – 65cm (20 – 26in) Wingspan 81– 95cm (32 – 37in) Weight 0.75 –1.5kg (13⁄ 4 – 31⁄ 4 lb)
Social Flocks Lifespan 15 – 25 years Status Secure
101
WILDFOWL
protruding
head white patch white belly in
FEMALE flight
white patch
MALE (WINTER) on wings
white belly pale brown head MALE (SUMMER)
pale orange
legs
MALE (WINTER)
Length 46 – 56cm (18 – 22in) Wingspan 84 – 95cm (33 – 37in) Weight 650 – 900g (23 – 32oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan 10 –15 years Status Vulnerable
102
WILDFOWL
white neck-stripe
and breast
grey bill
with black
lines
MALE (WINTER)
yellowish patch
outstretched
head and neck MALE (WINTER)
dull greyish body
white trailing
edge grey bill
FEMALE
Length 53 –70cm (21– 28in) Wingspan 80 – 95cm (32 – 37in) Weight 550 –1,200g (20 – 43oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan 15 – 25 years Status Vulnerable
103
WILDFOWL
FEMALE
long, heavy,
shovel-like
black bill
IN FLIGHT
MALE
(WINTER)
bright white
breast
Length 44 – 52cm (171⁄ 2 – 201⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 70 – 84cm (28 – 33in) Weight 400 –1,000g (14 – 36oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan 10 – 20 years Status Secure
104
WILDFOWL
short,
dull grey wings black-tipped
greyish bill
FEMALE
white band
white belly on wings
pointed
tail
MALE
white
(WINTER) belly
bold white
patch on
wings (adult)
MALE
(WINTER)
redder than female;
IN FLIGHT retains white on
wings black-
round tipped
mottled greyish to head
rust-brown body; bluish bill
dark legs
MALE
(SUMMER)
L ike most ducks, the Wigeon forms close flocks on water while
feeding, advancing across a salt marsh or meadow in a tight-
packed mass. Such a flock looks richly colourful and adds to the FEMALE
effect with constant loud calls.Wigeon are generally shy and fly off
when approached, large numbers forming wheeling flocks circling
above a marsh or heading for the safety of a reservoir.They have FLIGHT: fast, wader-like, head protruding, wings
good reason to be wary, being the prime target of many fowlers. swept back and pointed, tail pointed.
VOICE Male has loud,
explosive, musical whistle,
whee-oo; female has deep,
rough, abrupt growl.
NESTING In long vegetation
on ground, near water; 8 or
9 eggs; 1 brood;April–July.
FEEDING Grazes on
short grass, often in dense
flocks; also feeds in shallow GRAZING
water, taking seeds, shoots, Dense Wigeon flocks feed on short grass near water. The entire flock
and roots. usually faces one way while feeding.
Length 45 – 51cm (18 – 20in) Wingspan 75 – 86cm (30 – 34in) Weight 500 – 900g (18 – 32oz)
Social Dense flocks Lifespan Up to 15 years Status Secure
105
WILDFOWL
white central
bar
pale streak
beside tail
FEMALE streaked
pale streak JUVENILE green band on brown body
MALE beside tail brown head with grey legs
(WINTER)
thin horizontal white
thick midwing line along side
bar
pale leading
edge
bright green
patch on
hindwings grey body
(plumage
similar to
FEMALE female’s in
green summer)
patch IN FLIGHT
black-edged
yellow triangle
under tail
T he smallest common
surface-feeding duck,
the Teal is agile and quick in
MALE
(WINTER)
flight, its movements recalling
those of a wader. Nervous groups may
often swoop down to a sheltered bay, only to dart over the water FLIGHT: quick, active, twisting; swooping in to
surface and wheel up and away once more; sometimes several such settle like waders.
approaches precede their eventual DRAB DUCK
settling. In places,Teal occur in hundreds An absence of bright colours on
but 20–40 are more typical, scattered the bill and legs helps to identify
along well-vegetated or muddy shores, the female Teal.
or in wet marshes.
VOICE Male has loud, ringing, high-
pitched crik crik that can be easily heard
at long range across marshes or estuaries;
female has high quack.
NESTING Down-lined hollow near
water; 8–11 eggs; 1 brood;April–June.
FEEDING Mostly in water or on muddy
shores, taking plants and seeds.
Length 34 – 38cm (131⁄ 2 –15in) Wingspan 58 – 64cm (23 – 25in) Weight 250 – 400g (9 –14oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan 10 –15 years Status Secure
106
WILDFOWL
MALE
(AUTUMN)
blue-grey
flanks
MALE
(SPRING)
Length 37– 41cm (141⁄ 2 –16in) Wingspan 63 – 69cm (25 – 27in) Weight 250 – 500g (9 –18oz)
Social Family groups Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Vulnerable
107
WILDFOWL
pale grey
wingbar long,
brown IMMATURE tapered
MALE breast bill
(WINTER)
brownish
liver-brown back red head
with paler flanks
FEMALE
reddish eye
IN FLIGHT peaked crown sloping
forehead
rich red head
pale grey back
and flanks
T ogether with the Tufted Duck, which often associates with it,
the Pochard is one of the common inland diving ducks. Flocks FLIGHT: fast and direct, with fast, deep wingbeats;
are generally less active by day than Tufted Ducks, often sleeping for flies in loose flocks.
long periods.They are typically tightly packed and
often made up largely of one sex, mostly males in the
UK. In late autumn, hundreds of migrants may appear
on a lake for a day or two and then move on at night.
In summer, Pochards are dispersed and generally rare
breeding birds in western Europe, including the UK.
VOICE Wheezing rise-and-fall call from displaying
male; purring growl from female.
NESTING Large pad of leaves and down in reeds near
water; 8–10 eggs; 1 brood;April–July. FLAPPING WINGS
FEEDING Dives from surface, taking seeds, shoots, Pochards rise up and flap their wings in a “comfort” movement used by
and roots; often feeds by night. many waterfowl species.
Length 42 – 49cm (161⁄ 2 –191⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 72 – 82cm (28 – 32in) Weight 700 –1,000g (25 – 36oz)
Social Large flocks Lifespan 8 –10 years Status Secure
108
WILDFOWL
broad white
wingbar
MALE
(WINTER)
MALE
MALE (SUMMER)
(WINTER)
Length 42 – 51cm (161⁄ 2 – 20in) Wingspan 67–73cm (26 – 29in) Weight 0.8 –1.3kg (13⁄ 4 – 23⁄ 4 lb)
Social Flocks Lifespan 10 –12 years Status Localized
109
WILDFOWL
yellow
FEMALE
MALE eye
bluish bill
with large
black tip
MALE (SUMMER)
long, wispy
tuft on nape
IN FLIGHT
MALE
(WINTER)
Length 40 – 47cm (16 –181⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 67–73cm (26 – 29in) Weight 450 –1,000g (16 – 36oz)
Social Large flocks Lifespan 10 –15 years Status Secure
110
WILDFOWL
Eider wedge-
shaped
head
and bill
IMMATURE
white
black crown closely barred
patch on
brown body
rear flank
MALE long, wedge-
shaped head dark
with green patch belly
dark hind-
wings wedge-
white shaped bill
upperparts
pinkish
FEMALE breast
FEMALE
IN FLIGHT
black unbarred
underparts dark body
MALE
(WINTER)
MALE (SUMMER)
A n entirely marine
bird, the Eider is highly
sociable and often seen in large rafts offshore. FLIGHT: heavy, low, straight but fast, with deep,
It is, however, equally familiar as a tame duck around coastal rocks steady wingbeats.
and bays. Female Eiders with young in summer are easy to identify
and so are spring males, calling and displaying, in northern harbours.
In a few areas, flocks of Eiders remain all year but make no attempt
to nest.These groups show remarkable fidelity to certain sites.
VOICE Male has sensuous,
cooing aa-ahooh; female deep
growls and kok-kok-kok.
NESTING Down-lined hollow
on ground, exposed or well
hidden; 4–6 eggs; 1 brood;
April–June.
FEEDING Dives from surface MALE FLOCK FEMALE AT NEST
to take crabs, shellfish, shrimps, Large flocks of male Eiders gather offshore in The Eider makes a down-lined nest near water, often
and starfish. estuaries and bays. openly, on which the female sits tight to incubate.
Length 50 –71cm (20 – 28in) Wingspan 80 –108cm (32 – 43in) Weight 1.2 – 2.8kg (23⁄ 4 – 61⁄ 4lb)
Social Large flocks Lifespan 10 –15 years Status Secure
111
WILDFOWL
grey bill
pale tip to wing
dark brown
body greyish white
slim neck
lower face
MALE FEMALE
IN FLIGHT
pointed bill
long, pointed with yellow
all-black body with patch
tail often duller or paler wings round head
raised (browner in summer)
thin neck
MALE
(WINTER)
Length 45 – 54 cm (18 – 211⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 79 – 90 cm (31– 35 in) Weight 1.2 –1.4 kg (23⁄ 4 – 3lb)
Social Large flocks Lifespan 10 –15 years Status Secure
112
WILDFOWL
white
eye-spot
wedge-shaped
broad white face
wing patch
IN FLIGHT
FEMALE
MALE
(WINTER)
Length 52 – 59 cm (201⁄ 2 – 23 in) Wingspan 90 – 99 cm (35 – 39 in) Weight 1.1– 2 kg (21⁄ 2 – 41⁄ 2 lb)
Social Flocks Lifespan 10 –12 years Status Localized
113
WILDFOWL
MALE (WINTER)
pale flanks
FEMALE (WINTER)
FEMALE
(SUMMER)
long, flexible
tail point
pink band
dark cheek on stubby
white and pale
patch dark bill
grey body
FEMALE (WINTER)
IN FLIGHT
white
rich face
white rear brown patch
flanks body
MALE (WINTER)
MALE
(SUMMER)
Length 38 – 60cm (15 – 231⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 73 –79cm (29 – 31in) Weight 520 – 950g (19 – 34oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Secure
114
WILDFOWL
Goldeneye green-glossed
black head with
bold white spot
yellow eye triangular
dark
bill
black marks on
sparkling white body
large white
MALE (WINTER) belly
extensive white
on wing
MALE (WINTER)
body becomes
white with age face develops white
spot in winter dark brown
head
grey body
FEMALE
IN FLIGHT
JUVENILE (MALE)
FLYING
Goldeneyes are
shy and quick
to fly off.
Their wings RESTING FLOCK
make a loud After feeding well, Goldeneyes rest in flocks, head
whistling sound. withdrawn and tails cocked.
Length 42 – 50cm (161⁄ 2 – 20in) Wingspan 65 – 80cm (26 – 32in) Weight 600 –1,200g (21– 43oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan Up to 8 years Status Secure
115
WILDFOWL
outstretched FEMALE
head
MALE (WINTER)
large white white crest
forebody droops over
JUVENILE (MALE)
black nape
fine black lines on
flanks and foreparts
white head with
black eye patch
FEMALE
IN FLIGHT
largely white
plumage
MALE (WINTER)
Length 36 – 44 cm (14 –171⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 55 – 69cm (22 – 27in) Weight 500 – 800g (18 – 29oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan Up to 8 years Status Vulnerable
116
WILDFOWL
large white
wing patch
dark brown
head
smooth, downward-
pointing crest JUVENILE
sharply defined
white throat
MALE (WINTER) dark collar
thick-based,
blue-grey body
hooked
plum-red bill
FEMALE green-black
head
salmon-pink to
white body
FEMALE
IN FLIGHT
long tail
MALE (WINTER)
Length 57– 69cm (221⁄ 2 – 27in) Wingspan 82 – 98cm (32 – 39in) Weight 1–1.6kg (21⁄ 4 – 31⁄ 2 lb)
Social Small flocks Lifespan Up to 8 years Status Secure
117
WILDFOWL
brownish brownish
head grey body
MALE
(WINTER)
bold white
wing patches smudgy
FEMALE foreneck
wispy crest on
MALE (SUMMER)
ginger- green-black head
FEMALE
brown head
slim, slightly
broad white line
upcurved
between black back
red bill
and grey flank
red legs
IN FLIGHT
white collar
brown, black-
edged breast
MALE
(WINTER)
Length 51– 62cm (20 – 24in) Wingspan 70 – 85cm (28 – 34in) Weight 0.85 –1.25kg (13⁄ 4 – 23⁄ 4 lb)
Social Family groups/Flocks Lifespan Up to 8 years Status Secure
118
WILDFOWL
MALE
(SUMMER)
Length 35 – 43cm (14 –17in) Wingspan 53 – 62cm (21– 24in) Weight 350 – 800g (13 – 29oz)
Social Winter flocks Lifespan Up to 8 years Status Secure†
119
BIRDS OF PREY
BIRDS OF PREY
WIDE SPAN
T HIS IS A MIXED GROUP, including birds
that eat tiny insects, others that eat dead
animals, and some that catch their own prey
Vultures, such as this Egyptian Vulture, have
very long wings, soaring on warm air with
little expenditure of energy.
up to the size of small deer. Mostly splendid
in flight, many are likely to remain perched
for hours on end between feeding forays, while
others are much more aerial, spending much
of the day aloft.
VULTURES
Including some of Europe’s biggest birds, the
vultures soar high up, using superb eyesight to The Osprey is a fish-eating specialist,
spot potential food on the ground: they eat meat, diving onto its prey from the air, while the
preferably freshly dead animals. They need warm, Short-toed Eagle is a “snake-eagle”, one of a
rising air or updraughts and live in southern largely African group with large, yellow eyes,
Europe and mountainous areas. a big head, and unfeathered legs.
POWER
The Golden Eagle has
a powerful and
charismatic presence,
with a keen eye and
strong hooked bill.
120
BIRDS OF PREY
whitish crown
ADULT
long, broad
wings
bowed wings
while soaring
ADULT
large, sharp
FLIGHT: gull-like but strong with long, sailing blackish band claws
along midwings
glides; soars well.
Length 52 – 60cm (201⁄ 2 – 231⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 1.45 –1.7m (43⁄ 4 – 51⁄ 2 ft) Weight 1.2 – 2kg (23⁄ 4 – 41⁄ 2 lb)
Social Family groups Lifespan Up to 30 years Status Rare
121
BIRDS OF PREY
pale toffee-
brown back
wings in “V”
when soaring
rich buff-brown
very wing coverts
short and back
dark tail
darker flight
feathers
deeply
fingered
wingtips
narrow light
bands on
darker brown
underwings
IN FLIGHT
Length 0.95 –1.1m (3 – 31⁄ 2 ft) Wingspan 2.3 – 2.65m (71⁄ 2 – 83⁄ 4 ft) Weight 7–10kg (15 – 22lb)
Social Flocks Lifespan Up to 25 years Status Rare
122
BIRDS OF PREY
flat wings
when soaring
very dark massive, dark brown
pale forewings body (juvenile
feet paler)
ADULT
fresh feathers very
dark, fade paler
IN FLIGHT
ADULT
Length 1–1.15m (31⁄ 4 – 33⁄ 4 ft) Wingspan 2.5 – 2.85m (81⁄ 4 – 91⁄ 4 ft) Weight 7–11.5kg (15 – 25lb)
Social Small flocks Lifespan Up to 25 years Status Vulnerable
123
BIRDS OF PREY
black
wingtips older immature gains untidy ruff of
white with age spiky feathers
white narrow
tail head brownish across
pale upperwings
feet
ADULT
JUVENILE
IN FLIGHT
Length 55 – 65cm (22 – 26in) Wingspan 1.55 –1.7m (5 – 51⁄ 2 ft) Weight 1.6 – 2.1kg (31⁄ 2 – 43⁄ 4 lb)
Social Small flocks Lifespan 10–15 years Status Secure
124
BIRDS OF PREY
dark tail
pale head
ADULT
IN FLIGHT
A huge, flat-winged bird, this eagle is now very rare over most of
its former range. It survives in remote marshes and along rocky FLIGHT: heavy and direct; wingbeats deep and
coasts and offshore islands, and appears on extensive damp coastal elastic, or flexible; soars on flat wings.
plains in winter. Its presence in Scotland is due to a recent
reintroduction programme.Around small
fishing harbours, it can become quite
bold and relatively tame if unpersecuted.
It typically sits upright on rocks or
swoops into sheltered bays for fish.
VOICE Shrill yaps near nest in summer.
NESTING Huge pile of sticks on flat
crowns of trees or cliff ledges; 2 eggs;
1 brood; March–July.
FEEDING Picks sick or dead fish and SWOOPING ON PREY
offal from water using its feet; eats dead This eagle dives for food with lumbering but expert
animals and catches seabirds and hares. agility, picking fish and offal from water with its feet. OCCURRENCE
Most common in Scandinavia
SIMILAR SPECIES along rocky coasts, rare in central
and E Europe, Balkans, Iceland,
GRIFFON VULTURE BLACK VULTURE shorter and W Scotland where
wings see p.122 see p.123 head in
raised shorter flight reintroduced on offshore isles.
in “V “ head Winters mostly in wide open
shorter head
darker lowlands, including farmland, with
longer ones and twos appearing most
tail
wings raised years in some traditional areas.
in “V“ when
GOLDEN EAGLE soaring Seen in the UK
see p.126 J F M A M J J A S O N D
Length 70 – 92cm (28 – 36in) Wingspan 2 – 2.45m (61⁄ 2 – 8ft) Weight 3.1–7kg (63⁄ 4 –15lb)
Social Family groups Lifespan Up to 20 years Status Rare
125
BIRDS OF PREY
plumage
white on tail
and wings
reduces
with age
IMMATURE
bulky
body and
protruding head wings
(less than White-
tailed Eagle’s)
IMMATURE
barred dark
underwings
W hile White-tailed Eagles and the large vultures have great bulk
and a massive presence, the Golden Eagle combines size with
elegance and even delicacy in the air. It is often seen far off over a
high peak, literally a dot in the distance, but its wide, slow circling FLIGHT: direct flight steady; frequent glides; soars
is frequently sufficient to identify it. Close views are harder to come with wings raised; switchback display and occasional
by, a rare chance encounter on a high peak being superfast stoop or plunge with wings curved back.
really memorable.
VOICE Occasional shrill yelps and
whistling twee-oo.
NESTING Massive pile of sticks,
lined with wool and greenery, on
broad cliff ledge or in old pine;
1–3 eggs; 1 brood; February–June.
FEEDING Eats much dead meat,
mostly sheep and deer in winter; STANDING BIRD
hunts grouse, Ptarmigan, crows, A standing Golden Eagle looks majestic. The thick, heavily
hares, and rabbits. feathered legs are obvious on a perched bird. OCCURRENCE
Widespread but sparse, most
SIMILAR SPECIES frequent in Scotland, Spain, parts
of Scandinavia, Italy, Balkans, and
more patterned WHITE-TAILED EAGLE GRIFFON VULTURE also in Alps. Mostly over remote
underwings see p.125 see p.122
peaks or upland forests, more
flat wings small rarely on steep coasts, and stays
head high up, away from towns and
smaller bigger villages, and roads and other
broader developments (unlike Buzzards).
BUZZARD wings
less solidly stable in shorter Seen in the UK
flight; see p.136 tail J F M A M J J A S O N D
Length 75 – 85cm (30 – 34in) Wingspan 1.9 – 2.2m (61⁄ 4 –71⁄ 4 ft) Weight 3 – 6.7kg (61⁄ 2 –15lb)
Social Family groups Lifespan Up to 25 years Status Rare
126
BIRDS OF PREY
no dark wrist
patch
pale brown
variable dark upperside
hood
Length 62 – 69cm (24 – 27in) Wingspan 1.62 –1.78m (51⁄ 4 – 53⁄ 4 ft) Weight 1.5 – 2.5kg (31⁄ 4 –51⁄ 2 lb)
Social Family groups Lifespan Up to 15 years Status Rare
127
BIRDS OF PREY
wingtips
diagonal
pale bands
on wings
long tail flat or
with sharp bowed
white corners wings
spots
pale
patch
round
whitish head
crescent
on rump
dull brown
overall
BOTH FORMS
PALE FORM
FROM ABOVE
white underside
DARK FORM
IN FLIGHT PALE
FORM
Length 42 – 51cm (161⁄ 2 – 20in) Wingspan 1.1–1.35m (31⁄ 2 – 41⁄ 2 ft) Weight 700 –1,000g (25 – 36oz)
Social Family groups Lifespan Up to 15 years Status Rare
128
BIRDS OF PREY
Bonelli’s Eagle
dark midwing
band dark upperparts
short head, with white patch
held high on back
pale orange-
tawny below
dark-tipped
tail
IMMATURE
streaked white
blackish band underbody
JUVENILE on dark
underwings
pale leading
edge
ADULT
dark tail
tip
long, narrow,
straight-edged
ADULT tail
IN FLIGHT
Length 55 – 65cm (22 – 26in) Wingspan 1.45 –1.65m (43⁄ 4 – 51⁄ 2 ft) Weight 1.5 – 2.5kg (31⁄ 4 – 51⁄ 2 lb)
Social Pairs/Families Lifespan Up to 15 years Status Endangered
129
BIRDS OF PREY
pale tawny to
rust-red body
bowed wings
while soaring bold white
whitish to pale patch contrasts
red underside with black
of tail wrist patch
pale band on
upperwings
ADULT
ADULT
forked tail
IN FLIGHT
paler than
adult
ADULT
A gility and mastery in the air are synonymous with the kites: the
Red Kite adds the appeal of colour and pattern. It is easily
separated from the heavier, less elegant Buzzard, having more of
FLIGHT: direct flight slow and steady with supple,
deep wingbeats; often twists tail as rudder; soars well
but not usually to any great height; very aerobatic.
the lightness of a harrier, but even greater flexibility
and elasticity in its movements.Where common, it
gathers in groups of ten or even up to forty wherever
food is concentrated.
VOICE High, long-drawn, wailing or squealing weieie-
ee-ow, higher-pitched than Buzzard.
NESTING Large nest of sticks, rags, earth, and rubbish
in tree, usually well-hidden; 2–4 eggs; 1 brood;
March–June.
FEEDING Eats dead animals, such as rabbits or sheep; FLEXIBLE FLIGHT
catches birds up to crow or gull size in surprise dash; The kite flexes its wings and twists its long tail from side to side to exploit
also feeds on insects, earthworms, and voles. air currents to the full; it is capable of fast stoops and twisting dives.
Length 60 – 65cm (231⁄ 2 – 26in) Wingspan 1.45 –1.65m (43⁄ 4 – 51⁄ 2 ft) Weight 0.75 –1.3kg (13⁄ 4 – 23⁄ 4 lb)
Social Small flocks Lifespan Up to 25 years Status Secure
130
BIRDS OF PREY
Black Kite
small pale
bowed wings head
dull and dark
pale spots overall
dull brown on back
wings with
pale diagonal
band above paler underside
and head
ADULT
IMMATURE
W ith all the elegance of the Red Kite, the Black Kite lacks the
contrasted pattern and rich colours, although it is far from
uniform and far from black. Even more than a Red Kite it is likely
ADULT
long wings
to snatch food from the surface of water in a fast, sweeping dive,
using its feet to pick up the food and carry it as it feeds in mid-air.
Generally it is more numerous in areas
where both birds are found and more likely
to form small groups.
VOICE High, whinnying peeie-ee-i-ee-i-ee.
NESTING Nest of sticks, earth, and scraps
of all kinds in tree; 2–4 eggs; 1 brood;
March–June.
FEEDING Takes a lot of dead or dying fish
from water or along shoreline; much dead
meat and offal or scraps of all kinds; dung, SCAVENGER
small birds, reptiles, and voles. Black Kites join other birds of prey and crows at
REMARK Groups fight and chase each carcasses and rubbish tips, and also snatch scraps
other over rubbish tips. with their feet in fast, accurate swoops.
OCCURRENCE
SIMILAR SPECIES Widespread from Spain and
Portugal to Finland and south to
slimmer, MARSH HARRIER 2; Balkans; rare visitor to UK. Feeds
rakish build similar in flight;
pale see p.132 around rubbish tips and over open
rump flat wings bolder wing ground, wooded slopes, coasts,
pattern and rivers; more often associated
longer tail with water than Red Kite and still
no pale diagonal
square band on wing around towns in some places.
tail BOOTED EAGLE
dark form; RED KITE Seen in the UK
see p.128 see p.130 J F M A M J J A S O N D
Length 48 – 58cm (19 – 23in) Wingspan 1.3 –1.55m (41⁄ 4 – 5ft) Weight 650 –1,100g (23 – 39oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan Up to 20 years Status Vulnerable
131
BIRDS OF PREY
dark brown
plumage IMMATURE MALE
MALE
cream patch
on wings
square grey tail creamy
very dark cap and
broad wings held up brown throat
in “V” while gliding plumage
FEMALE dark
IN FLIGHT belly
MALE
Length 48 – 55cm (19 – 22in) Wingspan 1.1–1.25m (31⁄ 2 – 4ft) Weight 400 – 800g (14 – 29oz)
Social Pairs/Family groups Lifespan Up to 15 years Status Secure
132
BIRDS OF PREY
dark brown
black wingtips above
dark barring on
silvery grey
underwings bold
cream and white rump
brown bars FEMALE
on tail pale grey
body
MALE FEMALE
IN FLIGHT whitish line
under
cheeks
FEMALE
MALE
grey tail
Length 43 – 50cm (17– 20in) Wingspan 1–1.2m (31⁄ 4 – 4ft) Weight 300 –700g (11– 25oz)
Social Roosts in groups Lifespan Up to 15 years Status Vulnerable
133
BIRDS OF PREY
dark
medium grey brown
long, narrow black upperparts above
wingtips angled back
FEMALE
banded
tail
pale
white below with FEMALE
rump streaked
bold streaks flanks
IN FLIGHT
MALE
Length 40 – 45cm (16 –18in) Wingspan 1–1.2m (31⁄ 4 – 4ft) Weight 225 – 450g (8 –16oz)
Social Pairs/Small flocks Lifespan Up to 15 years Status Secure
134
BIRDS OF PREY
Rough-legged Buzzard
pale head
white tail
with dark
bands
near tip pale chest and
dark brown above
blackish belly
Length 50 – 60cm (20 – 231⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 1.2 –1.5m (4 – 5ft) Weight 600 –1,300g (21– 46oz)
Social Family groups Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Secure
135
BIRDS OF PREY
round shoulders;
hunched shape
soars with
wings raised dark, rich brown
upperparts
cream head pale
pale, underside
finely with dark
barred ADULT chest
tail
pale “U”
across
middle
barred pale
underwings dark wrist
with dark tips patch
Length 50 – 57cm (20 – 221⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 1.13 –1.28m (33⁄ 4 – 41⁄ 4 ft) Weight 550 –1,200g (20 – 43oz)
Social Family groups Lifespan Up to 25 years Status Secure
136
BIRDS OF PREY
“tiger-striped”
underparts
ADULT ADULT
IN FLIGHT
dark bands
on base of
tail
ADULT
Length 52 – 60cm (201⁄ 2 – 231⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 1.35 –1.5m (41⁄ 2 – 5ft) Weight 600 –1,100g (21– 39oz)
Social Migrates in flocks Lifespan Up to 25 years Status Secure
137
BIRDS OF PREY
Sparrowhawk browner
above
short, small than adult
medium-length head
wings, fanned
yellow eye JUVENILE
square when
soaring
orange on face brown
bars
below
barred
orange pale line over
below eye
FEMALE
broad wings
(angled back to
point in fast flight)
barred
MALE grey
below
IN FLIGHT
Length 28 – 40cm (11–16in) Wingspan 60 – 80cm (231⁄ 2 – 32in) Weight 150 – 320g (5 –12oz)
Social Family groups Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Secure
138
BIRDS OF PREY
brown
upperparts deep chest
and broad
shoulders
broad black-streaked,
wings rich buff below
greyish to brownish
upperparts (female
wears browner)
JUVENILE
whitish
S-shaped underside,
trailing JUVENILE with fine
edge grey barring
protruding head
MALE
ADULT
wings
fingered
at tip, or
angled back long,
to point round tail white
under tail
IN FLIGHT
Length 48 – 61cm (19 – 24in) Wingspan 0.95 –1.25m (3 – 4ft) Weight 500 –1,350g (18 – 48oz)
Social Family groups Lifespan Up to 20 years Status Secure
139
BIRDS OF PREY
FEMALE
pale brown
inner wings black
claws
Length 34 – 39cm (131⁄ 2 –151⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 65 – 80cm (26 – 32in) Weight 190 – 300g (7–11oz)
Social Family groups Lifespan Up to 15 years Status Declining
140
BIRDS OF PREY
black-barred
blue-grey back blue-grey
panel head
FEMALE
unspotted, rich
red-brown back
FEMALE
IN FLIGHT
MALE
Length 27– 33cm (101⁄ 2 –13in) Wingspan 63 –72cm (25 – 28in) Weight 90 – 200g (31⁄ 4 –7oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan 5 –7 years Status Vulnerable†
141
BIRDS OF PREY
dark below
reddish IN FLIGHT
under tail
slightly browner
than adult
thick black
streaks
on pale
no red underparts
FLIGHT: easy, relaxed with fluent wingbeats; hunts under
in gliding, swooping, patrolling flight with sudden tail
rufous
twists and changes of height, direction, and pace.
thighs
JUVENILE ADULT
Length 28 – 35cm (11–14in) Wingspan 70 – 84cm (28 – 33in) Weight 130 – 340g (5 –12oz)
Social Small feeding flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Secure
142
BIRDS OF PREY
ADULT anchor-shaped
wings
black lobes white
blue-grey on each breast
broad upperparts side of face
pale and neck
rump bluish eye-
ring and large, solid
bill-base body with
broad
short, IN FLIGHT shoulders
square
dark tail
closely
barred
white
underside
browner than
adult above with
buff edges
streaked below
ADULT
JUVENILE
buff tail grey bars on
tip flanks and belly
Length 39 – 50cm (151⁄ 2 – 20in) Wingspan 0.95 –1.15m (3 – 33⁄ 4 ft) Weight 600 –1,300g (21– 46oz)
Social Family groups Lifespan Up to 15 years Status Rare
143
BIRDS OF PREY
FEMALE
orange-
buff
brown FEMALE below
and cream
banded tail
IN FLIGHT
MALE
Length 25 – 30cm (10 –12in) Wingspan 60 – 65cm (231⁄ 2 – 26in) Weight 140 – 230g (5 – 8oz)
Social Family groups Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Secure
144
GAMEBIRDS
GAMEBIRDS
A MIXED GROUP OF GROUND birds, these are
all short-legged, short-billed species that feed
on vegetable matter, some with a very restricted
diet. Their chicks, however, require an abundance
of energy-giving insects. Several have ritualized
social behaviour, typified by the “lekking” of
Black Grouse. Males display in order to get the
best chance of being selected by a female, but take
no part in incubating eggs or rearing the young.
GROUSE
Round-bodied species with feathered legs and
feet, and typically cryptic plumages, grouse live
in demanding conditions, including bleak heather GIANT GROUSE
moors and high mountain tops. Biggest of all grouse is the
male Capercaillie, a threatened
species of pine forest habitats.
PHEASANTS It is a social bird where numbers
Long-tailed male pheasants are gorgeous birds, remain high, but often solitary
while females are generally smaller and duller. in summer.
Some are secretive and hard to find.
PARTRIDGES
Small and rotund, partridges have far less
difference between male and female than the
grouse and pheasants, and the males take a greater FACIAL WATTLES
part in caring for the family. They are social Several species of gamebirds, such
as this Pheasant, have fleshy red
birds outside the breeding season. The Quail appendages on the head. Pheasants
is a smaller species and a long-distance migrant, have been introduced for shooting
wintering in Africa. in many countries.
SHOW OFF
A male Black Grouse performs a courtship
display at dawn; these ritualized displays
are performed in groups in early spring.
145
GAMEBIRDS
white
wings dark scaly
black bars
white tail
wings
IN FLIGHT
thick bill
white
belly
all-white
body MALE
(SUMMER)
WINTER
Length 37– 42cm (141⁄ 2 –161⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 55 – 66cm (22 – 26in) Weight 650 –750g (23 – 27oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan Up to 7 years Status Secure
146
GAMEBIRDS
white wings
MALE MALE
(SUMMER) (WINTER) small, round
black tail
head
neck
extended FEMALE (SUMMER)
red over
eye small, delicate
bill small bill
IN FLIGHT white
white wings slim plumage
“salt and pepper”
barring on grey neck
black line upperparts
between bill
and eye round, bantam-
shaped body
white plumage;
piebald in spring
and autumn
MALE
(WINTER) white belly
FEMALE (WINTER)
MALE
(SUMMER)
Length 34 – 36cm (131⁄ 2 –14in) Wingspan 54 – 60cm (211⁄ 2 – 231⁄ 2 in) Weight 400 – 600g (14 – 21oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan Up to 7 years Status Secure
147
GAMEBIRDS
short,
spiky
brown beard
wings white-speckled,
broad, round
black tail
MALE
huge,
blackish
grey body
bold
white
shoulder
FEMALE dark bars on spot
rufous-ginger
dark bars body
on orange
tail
IN FLIGHT
broad
orange
chest
MALE
white patches on FEMALE
flanks and belly
Length 60 – 85cm (231⁄ 2 – 34in) Wingspan 0.87–1.25m (23⁄ 4 – 4ft) Weight 1.5 – 4.4kg (31⁄ 4 – 93⁄ 4 lb)
Social Family groups Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Secure†
148
GAMEBIRDS
curved, broad-
tipped outer
MALE feathers
on tail
dark-barred,
yellow-brown
or grey plumage MALE
FEMALE
Length 40 – 55cm (16 – 22in) Wingspan 65 – 80cm (26 – 32in) Weight 0.75 –1.4kg (13⁄ 4 – 3lb)
Social Flocks Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Vulnerable
149
GAMEBIRDS
IN FLIGHT
black line
dark red- around
brown tail white face,
speckled
breast
Length 32 – 34cm (121⁄ 2 –131⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 45 – 50cm (18 – 20in) Weight 400 – 550g (14 – 20oz)
Social Family groups Lifespan Up to 6 years Status Vulnerable
150
GAMEBIRDS
dumpy, pale
brown body
rusty
orange
tail sides
IN FLIGHT pale
streaks
on grey
breast
broad, horseshoe-
shaped, dark
brown patch
on belly
dull brown
legs
STUBBLE BIRD
FLIGHT: low, fast, on bowed wings, with quick Winter corn stubbles
wingbeats and short glides. provide good habitat
but are now rarely left
for long. Intensive
Length 29 – 31cm (111⁄ 2 –12in) Wingspan 45 – 48cm (18 –19in) Weight 350 – 450g (13 –16oz)
Social Family groups Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Vulnerable
151
GAMEBIRDS
bold cream
small
bill
stripes on
brown back black on
throat
pale
throat
small,
dark, rotund
pointed body
tail narrow, long,
MALE dark wings
FEMALE
Length 16 –18cm (61⁄ 2 –7in) Wingspan 32 – 35cm (121⁄ 2 –14in) Weight 70 –135g (21⁄ 2 – 5oz)
Social Family groups Lifespan Up to 8 years Status Vulnerable
152
GAMEBIRDS
MALE
FEMALE
pointed
tail
white neck-ring
white markings
orange-copper on reddish
flanks brown body MALE
(PALE VARIANT)
long, stiff,
tapered tail
MALE
(DARK FORM)
Length 52 – 90cm (201⁄ 2 – 35in) Wingspan 70 – 90cm (28 – 35in) Weight 0.9 –1.4kg (2 – 3lb)
Social Small flocks Lifespan Up to 7 years Status Secure
153
RAILS, CRAKES, AND COOTS/CRANES AND BUSTARDS
Family Rallidae
MASSIVE MALES
Male Great Bustards are considerably bigger
than the females but still can be difficult to
locate in their remote habitats.
154
RAILS, CRAKES, AND COOTS
grey
throat
pink and
legs breast
ADULT
FEMALE
Length 27– 30cm (10 1⁄ 2 –12in) Wingspan 46 – 53cm (18 – 21in) Weight 135 – 200g (5 –7oz)
Social Family groups Lifespan 5 –7 years Status Vulnerable
155
RAILS, CRAKES, AND COOTS
pink legs
untidy bars
below
dull legs
ADULT
JUVENILE
Length 22 – 28cm (9 –11in) Wingspan 38 – 45cm (15 –18in) Weight 85 –190g (3 – 7oz)
Social Family groups Lifespan Up to 6 years Status Secure†
156
RAILS, CRAKES, AND COOTS
Spotted Crake
short, often
ADULT
cocked tail
rotund from side
grey-buff
neck with
striped white spots
underparts
buff short
under yellowish
tail white bars bill with
IN FLIGHT on flanks red at base
browner on
head and neck
than adult
ADULT
Length 22 – 24cm (9 – 91⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 35cm (14in) Weight 70 – 80g (21⁄ 2 – 27⁄ 8 oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure
157
RAILS, CRAKES, AND COOTS
Moorhen slate-grey
red eye
brown
body
dull greenish
yellow bill
head
ADULT rich brown
back
JUVENILE
bright red bill
with yellow tip
green
legs slate-grey underside
ADULT
Length 32 – 35cm (121⁄ 2 –14in) Wingspan 50 – 55cm (20 – 22in) Weight 250 – 420g (9 –15oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan Up to 15 years Status Secure
158
RAILS, CRAKES, AND COOTS
blurred white
ADULT face and throat
JUVENILE
IN FLIGHT
ADULT
Feeding flocks are usually bigger and more coherent than the loose large grey feet
groups of Moorhens. Coots are also obviously bigger and more with lobed toes
heavily built. Close views reveal their broadly lobed toes, more like
a grebe’s.While superficially duck-like, the Coot is really not very
like any species of European duck.
VOICE Loud, explosive kowk, high, squeaky teuwk, pik, and similar FLIGHT: usually low, quite quick but heavy, lacking
notes; juvenile has loud whistling calls. agility; big feet trailing.
NESTING Large bowl of wet
vegetation, in overhanging
branches or reeds, or on mound
of semi-floating debris at water’s
edge; 6–9 eggs; 1 or 2 broods;
April–August.
FEEDING Dives easily to feed
underwater, bouncing back up
like a cork; eats grass, seeds, FAMILY GROUP TERRITORIAL DISPLAY
shoots, snails, tadpoles, and Coots often nest on town park lakes, where Coots raise their wings and body feathers to impress
similar small aquatic creatures. family groups are a familiar sight. and scare away rivals, and often resort to fights.
Length 36 – 38cm (14 –15in) Wingspan 70 – 80cm (28 – 32in) Weight 600 – 900g (21– 32oz)
Social Large winter flocks Lifespan Up to 15 years Status Secure
159
CRANES AND BUSTARDS
Crane dull
brown
head
red patch on
crown, often
hard to see
brownish black face
fingered tips body and throat
of wings
JUVENILE
thick pale
ADULT grey body, often lower neck
white nape brown on back
and neck- and chest
stripe
long
ADULT neck
Length 0.96 –1.19m (3 – 4ft) Wingspan 1.8 – 2.22m (6 –71⁄ 4 ft) Weight 4.5 – 6kg (10 –13lb)
Social Large winter flocks Lifespan Up to 20 years Status Vulnerable
160
CRANES AND BUSTARDS
short, broad
tail rufous
heavily barred breast
rufous upperparts
MALE
IN FLIGHT
FEMALE
MALE
T his is one of the world’s heaviest flying birds, the males being
massive, heavy-bodied, thick-legged, strong-billed birds, and
the females markedly smaller.They live in semi-natural steppe and
remote areas of cereal cultivation, but agricultural intensification FLIGHT: strong, low, direct, with continual
and irrigation threaten their future survival. Small groups are shy powerful wingbeats.
and easily disturbed, flying off powerfully with deep, slow DISPLAY
wingbeats, revealing extensive areas A displaying male Great Bustard is
of white.They are very rare outside a remarkable sight, turning his
their regular range, appearing at long wings over to reveal large areas
intervals and quite erratically on of white.
open farmland in northwest Europe
in winter or early spring.
VOICE Mostly silent.
NESTING Unlined scrape in soil;
2 or 3 eggs; 1 brood;April–June.
FEEDING Takes small rodents,
reptiles, amphibians, and
insects from ground.
SIMILAR SPECIES
OCCURRENCE
LITTLE BUSTARD 32; Very local in Spain, Portugal, and
see p.162
E Europe; resident on open plains
very much with dry grass or cereals in undis-
smaller turbed areas, typically in areas
with extensive views all round.
Very rare vagrant elsewhere.
TAKING OFF
Seen in the UK
The distinctive white underwings with black tips of the Great Bustard are
J F M A M J J A S O N D
clearly visible at take-off.
Length 90 –105cm (35 – 41in) Wingspan 2.1– 2.4m (7–7 3⁄ 4 ft) Weight 8 –16kg (18 – 35lb)
Social Small flocks Lifespan 15 – 20 years Status Declining
161
CRANES AND BUSTARDS
white
IN FLIGHT belly
FEMALE
long legs
Length 40 – 45cm (16 –18in) Wingspan 83 – 91cm (33 – 36in) Weight 600 – 900g (21– 32oz)
Social Winter flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Vulnerable
162
WADERS
WADERS
C ALLED SHOREBIRDS IN North America,
and waders in Europe, some live far from
any shore and several rarely wade. They are mostly
especially agile in flight. Long-legged, Avocets
and stilts feed in shallow water. Small sandpipers
can be abundant, flying in large flocks. Some
long-legged but vary from short-billed to very feed on rocky shores, some on sand, others on
long-billed, their beaks straight, curved down, or mud or shallow water. Medium-sized sandpipers
curved upwards. Some are among the world’s have longer legs and bills, are less gregarious, and
longest-distance migrants. This large group have loud calls and striking patterns in flight.
includes the Oystercatcher, avocets, stilts, plovers, Larger godwits have bright summer plumages,
pratincoles, sandpipers, godwits, and curlews. while curlews are much bigger with no clear
differences according to age, sex, or season.
GROUPS
Plovers are short-billed birds: this group includes
broad-winged lapwings and sharp-winged
plovers, some “ringed” with black and white head
and chest patterns. Pratincoles are plover-like but JUVENILES
Many young waders,
such as this Black-
tailed Godwit, have
colours that echo the
breeding plumage of
their parents.
STUNNING FLOCKS
High-tide roosts bring waders together in dense packs, which
make a spectacular sight when they take flight.
RESTING TIME
Waders such as these
Oystercatchers feed on exposed
beaches, but take an hour or
two to rest every high tide.
163
WADERS
dark-
tipped
long, broad bill
white wingbar
bulky, striking
black and white
body
vivid orange-
red bill IMMATURE
white “V”
on back
white collar
ADULT
(SUMMER)
dark-
IN FLIGHT tipped bill
short, pale
pink legs
ADULT
(SUMMER) ADULT (WINTER)
Length 40 – 45cm (16 –18in) Wingspan 80 – 85cm (32 – 34in) Weight 400 –700g (14 – 25oz)
Social Large flocks Lifespan Up to 15 years Status Secure
164
WADERS
slim, bright
diagonal bar over white body
inner wings
curved black
band on each
side of back
leans forward
while feeding
ADULT
squared black
wingtips (larger
on male)
IN FLIGHT
brown tips to
feathers long blue-
grey legs
ADULT
ADULT
JUVENILE
Length 42 – 46cm (161⁄ 2 –18in) Wingspan 67–77cm (26 – 30in) Weight 250 – 400g (9 –14oz)
Social Winter flocks Lifespan 10 –15 years Status Localized
165
WADERS
ADULT
(WINTER)
pale edges
to feathers
on back
ADULT (WINTER)
ADULT
(SUMMER)
JUVENILE
Length 33 – 36cm (13 –14in) Wingspan 70cm (28in) Weight 250 – 300g (9 –11oz)
Social Family groups Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Secure
166
WADERS
head
outstretched
long, dark-
streaked, sandy
brown body
pale ADULT
tail broad pale
band along
white spot wings
on black
outer wings
Length 40 – 45cm (16 –18in) Wingspan 77– 85cm (30 – 34in) Weight 370 – 450g (13 –16oz)
Social Autumn flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Vulnerable
167
WADERS
ADULT
white IN FLIGHT
rump pale belly
forked tail
faint pale
spots
no black
outline to bib ADULT
JUVENILE
FLIGHT: elegant, swooping action, changing pace
Length 24 – 28cm (91⁄ 2 –11in) Wingspan 60 –70cm (231⁄ 2 – 28in) Weight 50 – 80g (13⁄ 4– 27⁄ 8oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Endangered
168
WADERS
long, tapered
wingtips stubby
black
indistinct bill
pale area
over eye
narrow black
ADULT breast-band
broken
band
dull legs
JUVENILE
Length 14 –15cm (51⁄ 2 – 6in) Wingspan 42 – 48cm (161⁄ 2 –19in) Weight 30 – 50g (11⁄ 16 –13⁄ 4 oz)
Social Winter flocks Lifespan 5 –10 years Status Secure†
169
WADERS
dull
bill
bold white
white tail wingbar white stripe
sides over eye
short, black
and orange
black and white bill
dark ringed head
tail tip and throat
ADULT (WINTER)
IN FLIGHT
clean white
underparts
incomplete
breast-band
dull legs
orange legs
JUVENILE
ADULT
(SUMMER) FLIGHT: strong, fast, direct; shallow beats of
angled wings; bat-like song-flight.
Length 17–19cm (61⁄ 2 –71⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 48 – 57cm (19 – 221⁄ 2 in) Weight 55 –75g (2 – 25⁄ 8 oz)
Social Winter flocks Lifespan 5 –10 years Status Secure
170
WADERS
Kentish Plover
swept-back,
pointed wings
black bar on dark legs
long white forehead JUVENILE
wingbar rufous-ginger cap
earth brown (dull in winter)
upperparts
white
forehead
dark legs
MALE
(SUMMER)
FEMALE
Length 15 –17cm (6 – 61⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 50cm (20in) Weight 40 – 60g (17⁄ 16 – 21⁄ 8 oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan 10 years Status Declining
171
WADERS
apricot markings
on upperparts
plain wings
dark stripe
through eye black cap
JUVENILE
(AUTUMN)
broad white stripe
ADULT over eye to nape
(SUMMER)
dull plumage
(paler in face pattern less
winter) sharp than female’s
white
IN FLIGHT thin black and throat
broad white bands
around chest
brighter plumage
than male’s
duller underside
than female’s
rich rust-red
black belly underside with
MALE (white in winter) blackish belly
(SUMMER)
FEMALE (SUMMER)
Length 20 – 22cm (8 – 9in) Wingspan 57– 64cm (221⁄ 2 – 25in) Weight 90 –145g (31⁄ 4 – 5oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan 5 –10 years Status Secure†
172
WADERS
ADULT ADULT
(SUMMER) (WINTER)
black face
IN FLIGHT
mottled
grey back
heavy bill
black underside
silvery grey and
black spangled
upperparts
pale
underside
ADULT ADULT
(WINTER) (SUMMER)
Length 27– 30cm (101⁄ 2 –12in) Wingspan 71– 83cm (28 – 33in) Weight 200 – 250g (7– 9oz)
Social Winter flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Secure†
173
WADERS
buff-yellow spots
on brown-black
white back
ADULT (SUMMER) pale yellow, white,
wingbar
yellow and black
on breast spangled
upperparts
white
dark belly
rump
ADULT (WINTER)
white along
ADULT white belly sides of
(WINTER) black belly
white
underwings
ADULT
ADULT (SUMMER) (SUMMER)
IN FLIGHT
Length 26 – 29cm (10 –111⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 67–76cm (26 – 30in) Weight 140 – 250g (5 – 9oz)
Social Winter flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Secure
174
WADERS
Lapwing steep
in summer
green back with
buffish feather
broad, rounded forehead edges
wings black cap
MALE extends into
(SUMMER) wispy crest crest shorter than
on male
white
underwings
short bill
flat, dark green
back, glossed ADULT (WINTER)
reddish IN FLIGHT purple and
copper mottled throat
patch
under tail
FEMALE
(SUMMER)
short
crest
buff feather
fringes
MALE
short, thin legs
(SUMMER)
JUVENILE (AUTUMN)
OCCURRENCE
Breeds on wet moors, riverside
pastures, upland fields, and
farmland (decreasing), almost
throughout Europe. In winter,
moves south and west, feeds on
arable fields, meadows, salt marsh
and muddy reservoir edges; in
estuaries in hard weather.
FLYING FLOCK
Seen in the UK
Flocks of Lapwings fly in lines, “V”s, or irregular masses, rising steadily as
J F M A M J J A S O N D
a group, often circling and returning.
Length 28 – 31cm (11–12in) Wingspan 70 –76cm (28 – 30in) Weight 150 – 300g (5 –11oz)
Social Winter flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Secure†
175
WADERS
pale coppery
red underparts pale grey
back
whitish belly
lacy pattern of
dark and light
feather edges short grey
legs
ADULT
(WINTER)
apricot-tinged
underparts
JUVENILE
Length 23 – 27cm (9 –101⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 47– 54cm (181⁄ 2 – 211⁄ 2 in) Weight 125 – 215g (4 – 8oz)
Social Large flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Localized
176
WADERS
ADULT
(WINTER)
light grey
back straight
black bill
broad white
wingbar jet black bright white
dark bend
legs underparts
of wings
IN FLIGHT
black spangling
on grey back
ADULT (SUMMER)
JUVENILE (AUTUMN)
Length 20 – 21cm (8 – 81⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 36 – 39cm (14 –151⁄ 2 in) Weight 50 – 60g (13⁄ 4 – 21⁄ 8 oz)
Social Winter flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Secure
177
WADERS
dull grey-brown
long, tapered
black bill, slightly
curved
thin white
wingbar
dull grey-streaked
breast
dark JUVENILE
centre to
white-sided
short black rich chestnut
rump
IN FLIGHT legs and black
back
black and
cream stripes
on back
ADULT (WINTER)
black streaks on fine dark
large, squarish, streaks on
buff underside black belly patch whitish
breast
JUVENILE
ADULT (SUMMER)
Length 16 – 20cm (61⁄ 2 – 8in) Wingspan 35 – 40cm (14 –16in) Weight 40 – 50g (17⁄ 16 –13⁄ 4 oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Common
178
WADERS
ADULT
(SUMMER)
long no streaks
wings below
JUVENILE
(AUTUMN) JUVENILE
(AUTUMN)
Length 18 – 23cm (7– 9in) Wingspan 38 – 41cm (15 –16in) Weight 45 – 90g (15⁄ 8 – 31⁄ 4 oz)
Social Small groups Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Localized
179
WADERS
pale
legs
ADULT
white
outer tail (SUMMER) ADULT (WINTER)
feathers dark spots
above
short, slim
IN FLIGHT dark bill
long rear
body
dark breast-band
pale legs with paler centre
white belly
Length 13 –15cm (5 – 6in) Wingspan 34 – 37cm (131⁄ 2 –141⁄ 2 in) Weight 20 – 40g (11⁄ 16 –17⁄ 16 oz)
Social Solitary/Small flocks Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure†
180
WADERS
strong cream
“V” on back
JUVENILE
(AUTUMN)
bright white
underside short
IN FLIGHT black bill
dull grey
upperparts
black and
cream mottling
on rich brown
upperparts
JUVENILE (AUTUMN)
ADULT
(SUMMER)
ADULT (WINTER)
bright
rufous
body
FLIGHT: fast, twisting; often going well out over
T he smallest of the
common waders, the
Little Stint is a shoreline bird
water and returning.
Length 12 –14cm (4 3⁄ 4 – 51⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 34 – 37cm (131⁄ 2 –141⁄ 2 in) Weight 20 – 40g (11⁄ 16 –17⁄ 16 oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Secure†
181
WADERS
dark streaks
on breast
white
sides to
black ADULT
rump (WINTER)
broad brownish
streaks on cap
IN FLIGHT
scaly pattern
on wings ADULT
(SUMMER)
pale bill dull yellow
base legs
drab grey-
brown head
dark back with and neck
scaly white
feather edges
dull yellow-
based dark
JUVENILE bill
dark streaks white belly
on flanks
F ew waders are as tightly restricted to a particular
habitat, or role, as the Purple Sandpiper, which is
essentially a bird of the very edge of the surf, searching ADULT
through wave-washed, seaweed-covered rocks for its food. orange- (WINTER)
yellow legs
Only rarely will one turn up inland. Unless it is with the
more nervous Turnstones, it may well be absurdly tame.
Like most waders, the Purple Sandpiper will not leave FLIGHT: low, fast, darting flights from rock to rock.
for its breeding grounds until mid-May and can return
in July; hence it is present for most months of the year
in western Europe, despite being a non-breeding visitor.
VOICE Simple, low, liquid weet or weet-wit.
NESTING Slight scrape on ground, on wide open
tundra; 4 eggs; 1 brood; May–July.
FEEDING Variety of insects, spiders, and other
invertebrates, chiefly periwinkles and similar molluscs
in winter.
Length 20 – 22cm (8 – 9in) Wingspan 40 – 44cm (16 –171⁄ 2 in) Weight 60 –75g (21⁄ 8 – 25⁄ 8 oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Secure†
182
WADERS
white underside
IN FLIGHT
irregular whitish
ADULT
marbling on dark
head and neck short, vivid (SUMMER)
dark brown and black orange legs
upperparts (more
buff feather edges
on juvenile)
dull brown-
black breast
ADULT
(WINTER)
W hile most waders like soft ground, chiefly mud or sand, the
Turnstone is equally at home on rocks, although sandy beaches FLIGHT: fast, low, flickering.
with a tangle of seaweed, shells, and small stones at the high-tide mark
are ideal for it. It makes a good living searching through such debris,
which is very rich in small invertebrates and regularly refreshed by
high tides.Turnstones are typically
noisy, active, and often quite tame.
VOICE Fast, hard, staccato calls,
tukatukatuk, teuk, tchik.
NESTING Scantily lined scrape
on ground close to shore in
islands and on rocky coasts;
4 eggs; 1 brood; May–July.
FEEDING Stirs up and turns over TIGHT ROOST QUARRELSOME FEEDERS
weed, stones, shells, and beach High tide sees scores of Turnstones packed close Small groups of Turnstones bicker as they
debris to find invertebrates. together for an hour or two. feed along the shore.
Length 21– 24cm (81⁄ 2 – 91⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 44 – 49cm (171⁄ 2 –191⁄ 2 in) Weight 80 –110g (27⁄ 8 – 35⁄ 8 oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Secure
183
WADERS
bold white
wingbar
stiff, bowed
wings
mid-brown
above
pale flecking
along feather
ADULT ADULT
(SUMMER) edges
dark tail with (SUMMER)
white sides pale-based, dark-
IN FLIGHT tipped bill
JUVENILE
(AUTUMN)
Length 19 – 21cm (71⁄ 2 – 81⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 32 – 35cm (121⁄ 2 –14in) Weight 40 – 60g (17⁄ 16 – 21⁄ 8 oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Secure
184
WADERS
cream-spotted
no white on brown back
upperwings
pale stripe
over eye
white pale
rump underwings
ADULT
JUVENILE (SUMMER)
narrow bars (AUTUMN)
white underside
on tail
IN FLIGHT streaked
long, yellow- breast
ochre legs
straight, dark-
tipped bill
W ith a typically
Tringa sandpiper
form and bobbing action,
the Wood Sandpiper is,
however, a more elegant and JUVENILE
longer-legged bird than the Green (AUTUMN)
Sandpiper. It is noticeably less thickset than
the larger Redshank and Greenshank. It is basically a
freshwater bird, not seen on open sea shores, often
found in weedy pools or paddling about on floating FLIGHT: strong, quick, light, with flicking
vegetation. Many Wood Sandpipers pass through wingbeats; often rises high if disturbed.
eastern and southern Europe in spring, when they are
scarce migrants in western Europe. In autumn, they are
still relatively uncommon but more regular and
predictable in western Europe, especially in August.
Ones and twos then appear on sheltered muddy shores
of reservoirs or on lagoons near the coast, feeding in a
rather nervous, jumpy manner, easily disturbed and
ready to fly off at some height.
VOICE Distinctive quick, sharp chiff-iff-iff-iff.
NESTING Small, leaf-lined scrape on ground,
occasionally old nest in tree; 4 eggs; 1 brood; May–July. SHALLOW WATER WADER
FEEDING Steps delicately over vegetation, picking The Wood Sandpiper feeds beside muddy pools or on shallow floods,
up insects and small aquatic invertebrates. flying off quickly and noisily if disturbed.
Length 19 – 21cm (71⁄ 2 – 81⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 36 – 40cm (14 –16in) Weight 50 – 90g (13⁄ 4 – 31⁄ 4 oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Declining
185
WADERS
Green Sandpiper
pale line in
very dark front of eye
upperwings
dark cap greyish
blackish white-speckled, bill with
underwings dark grey-brown dark tip
upperparts
big, square
white
rump
ADULT
thick bars streaked greyish
on tail IN FLIGHT breast
bright white
diffuse buff greenish legs underside
spots above
ADULT
JUVENILE
Length 21– 24cm (81⁄ 2 – 91⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 41– 46cm (16 –18in) Weight 70 – 90g (21⁄ 2 – 31⁄ 4 oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Secure†
186
WADERS
whitish belly
with black
bright red legs spots yellowish
orange
legs
JUVENILE
ADULT
(SUMMER)
Length 27– 29cm (101⁄ 2 –111⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 45 – 52cm (18 – 201⁄ 2 in) Weight 85 –155g (3 – 5oz)
Social Winter flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Declining
187
WADERS
white
back
fine, long,
blackish dark legs mid-grey red-based
below upperparts black bill
red legs
ADULT
JUVENILE (AUTUMN) (WINTER)
Length 29 – 32cm (111⁄ 2 –121⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 48 – 52cm (19 – 201⁄ 2 in) Weight 135 – 250g (5 – 9oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Secure
188
WADERS
plain upperwings
pale head
greyish and neck
upperparts
white ADULT
wedge (WINTER) slightly JUVENILE
on back upturned
bill blackish spots
above
IN FLIGHT
clear white
underparts streaked
breast
long, grey-
green legs
Length 30 – 35cm (12 –14in) Wingspan 53 – 60cm (21– 231⁄ 2 in) Weight 140 – 270g (5 –10oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Secure
189
WADERS
IN FLIGHT
grey-brown upperparts
with dark spots JUVENILE
(AUTUMN)
streaked
spotted chest
flanks
FLIGHT: quick, direct with quite fast wingbeats;
ADULT legs trail beyond tail.
(SUMMER)
Length 22 – 25cm (9 –10in) Wingspan 50cm (20in) Weight 80 – 90g (27⁄ 8 – 31⁄ 4 oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Secure†
190
WADERS
Black-tailed Godwit
broad white grey back
wingbars
ADULT coppery-red
(WINTER) from head to
breast long, straight
pale grey pink bill with
underparts fine tip
bright rufous-
buff plumage
JUVENILE
ADULT
(SUMMER)
Length 36 – 44cm (14 –171⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 62 –70cm (24 – 28in) Weight 280 – 500g (10 –18oz)
Social Winter flocks Lifespan 10 –15 years Status Vulnerable
191
WADERS
Bar-tailed Godwit
warm orange-buff
plain upperwings on neck
with darker tips long, fine-
tipped, faintly
upcurved bill
streaked streaked grey-brown
bright buff and buff (adult less
barred above chequered)
tail pinkish
bill base
ADULT
(WINTER)
IN FLIGHT
JUVENILE
pale buff
breast
shortish
dark legs
deep coppery
red underside
(female paler)
MALE
(SUMMER)
IMMATURE
(1ST WINTER)
FLIGHT: quick, agile; legs not trailing much beyond
tail; often acrobatic.
Length 33 – 42cm (13 –161⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 61– 68cm (24 – 27in) Weight 280 – 450g (10 –16oz)
Social Winter flocks Lifespan 10 –15 years Status Vulnerable
192
WADERS
Curlew
streaked brown
dark-tipped above head uniform or
upperwings with faintly banded
pale inner half along crown
broad
“V” on gull-like
rump shape
spotted
IN FLIGHT flanks long, evenly
downcurved
short bill
often looks dark
greyish
at distance
legs
whiter
belly
Length 50 – 60cm (20 – 231⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 80 –100cm (32 – 39in) Weight 575 – 950g (21– 34oz)
Social Winter flocks Lifespan 10 – 20 years Status Declining
193
WADERS
deep-chested
long white shape
“V” on back
IN FLIGHT
white
belly
Length 40 – 46cm (16 –18in) Wingspan 71– 81cm (28 – 32in) Weight 270 – 450g (10 –16oz)
Social Spring flocks Lifespan 10 –15 years Status Secure†
194
WADERS
A n extremely difficult
bird to see because of
its cryptic coloration, the
Woodcock can usually be evenly
observed only at woodland barred pale
underside
edges at dusk in spring or
summer while “roding”.This is a
mysterious territorial or courtship display
at just over treetop height, involving fast quivering
of bowed wings with regular grunts and whistles.At other times,
it remains determinedly out of sight in thick vegetation on the FLIGHT: quite quick and direct; flies up with loud
woodland floor, or feeding in wet ditches or bogs at night. Only wing noise and dashes away in zigzag.
rarely, usually in severe weather, is it seen on the ground. If disturbed,
it gets up with a clatter and flies off quite low and fast, sometimes
turning back in a wide arc.
VOICE In display, diagnostic
sharp, high whistle and deep
throaty grunt, tsi-wip grr grrr,
tsi-wip grr grrr.
NESTING Slight hollow in
dead leaves, under brambles,
or other cover in woods; 4
eggs; 1 brood; March–August.
FEEDING Probes for worms,
beetles, and seeds in rich leaf EVENING FLIGHT DIFFICULT TO SPOT
mould, muddy ditches, and In summer, Woodcocks fly over regular circuits A Woodcock on its nest, or resting on the ground, is
streamsides. above woodland areas at dusk. exceedingly difficult to see even at very close range.
Length 33 – 38cm (13 –15 in) Wingspan 55 – 65cm (22 – 26in) Weight 250 – 420g (9 –15oz)
Social Family groups Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Vulnerable
195
WADERS
extremely
with long, broad long bill,
dark wings cream stripes
with pale angled down
trailing edge
streaked
breast
inserts long
bill into mud
to find food
T he Snipe needs floods and oozy, watery mud, which allow its
extraordinarily long, thin bill to be inserted into the ground so
that it can detect and grasp worms; it cannot survive for very long
FLIGHT: quick, rolling from side to side with flicked
beats of angled-back wings; sudden, fast escape
without soft ground.With the increasing drying out or tidying up flight; settles with sudden flurry of wings.
of the modern landscape, with water constrained into
firm channels, the Snipe and its remarkable spring
displays have disappeared from vast areas of its former
range. It is still seen at the edge of marshes, or
occasionally flushed from almost underfoot amongst
wet rushes.While displaying, it has a high, steeply
undulating flight and dives with its tail fanned out.
VOICE Sharp, short, rasping scaap!; in spring, bright,
rhythmic, musical chip-per, chip-per, chip-per from perch;
also short, wavering, throbbing “bleat” from tail
feathers in switchback display flight.
NESTING Grass-lined shallow scrape in dense RESTING
vegetation; 4 eggs; 1 or 2 broods;April–July. This medium-sized wader may sit quietly for long spells beside a tussock
FEEDING Probes deeply in soft mud for worms. of rushes or grass and is less active than most other waders.
Length 25 – 28cm (10 –11in) Wingspan 37– 43cm (141⁄ 2 –17in) Weight 80 –120g (27⁄ 8 – 4oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan 5 –10 years Status Secure†
196
WADERS
striped, green-
glossed back
bill angled
pale edge down
of hind-
wings
streaked
IN FLIGHT flanks
Length 17–19cm (61⁄ 2 –71⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 30 – 36cm (12 –14in) Weight 35 –70g (11⁄ 4 – 21⁄ 2 oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan 5 –10 years Status Vulnerable†
197
WADERS
Grey Phalarope
black eye MALE
yellow-based (SUMMER)
patch dark bill
broad white
wingbar
pearly grey
back
white
FEMALE
cheeks
(SUMMER)
white
underparts black face
ADULT (WINTER)
IN FLIGHT
thick, dark-
tipped yellow
bill
orange-red
underside
FEMALE (SUMMER)
Length 20 – 22cm (8 – 9in) Wingspan 37– 40cm (141⁄ 2 –16in) Weight 50 –75g (13⁄ 4 –25⁄ 8 oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Secure†
198
WADERS
white throat
blackish wings
with strong bright red neck
white stripe (less red on male)
long buff stripes
on dark grey back fine
black
bill
FEMALE
(SUMMER)
looks very
dark
ADULT
JUVENILE (WINTER)
Length 17–19cm (61⁄ 2 –71⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 30 – 34cm (12 –131⁄ 2 in) Weight 25 – 50g (7⁄ 8 –13⁄ 4 oz)
Social Winter flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Secure†
199
WADERS
chequered
back long, pale yellow-
ochre legs
MALE (SPRING)
JUVENILE
FLIGHT: rather slow, with shallow, soft beats of (AUTUMN)
rather long wings.
Length 20 – 32cm (8 –121⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 46 – 58cm (18 – 23in) Weight 70 – 230g (21⁄ 2 – 8oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan 10 –15 years Status Secure†
200
SKUAS, GULLS, AND TERNS/AUKS
GULLS
While the Kittiwake is a maritime gull,
others breed inland or move inland
in winter to some extent,
FISHER
A Common Tern looks into the water
for fish: it will dive headlong to grasp
one in its bill.
MASSIVE GULL
The Great Black-backed Gull is the
world’s biggest gull. Capable of
killing rabbits and birds, it feeds
mostly on dead fish and scraps.
Family Alcidae
AUKS PENGUIN-LIKE
Auks look like northern equivalents of
the southern hemisphere penguins.
201
SKUAS, GULLS, AND TERNS
bold white
patch on pale brown to
outer wings cream streaks on
neck and mantle
IN FLIGHT
uniformly dark
underparts (juveniles
often blacker)
ADULT
thick blackish
T he largest, heaviest,
boldest, and most
predatory skua, the
legs
Length 50 – 58cm (20 – 23in) Wingspan 1.25 –1.4m (4 – 41⁄ 2 ft) Weight 1.2 – 2kg (23⁄ 4 – 41⁄ 2 lb)
Social Small flocks Lifespan 10 – 20 years Status Secure
202
SKUAS, GULLS, AND TERNS
white
flash
brown
brown breast-band
spoon- back
like tail
blunt
ADULT ADULT
tail IN FLIGHT
(DARK FORM) (PALE FORM)
blunt,
twisted
tail
grey legs
P omarine Skuas breed in the far north and so are seldom seen in
Europe in summer, but in spring small groups of adults pass by
southern and western headlands in a short, concentrated migration;
FLIGHT: direct flight steady, strong, straight;
wingbeats smooth and powerful; piracy involves fast,
in autumn, larger numbers can be seen around west European coasts active chase.
over a period of many weeks.These AUTUMN MIGRANT
migrants, however, tend to be widely Tired migrants after gales may rest
scattered and often far offshore, and on beaches and forage for food
it usually needs a good onshore like gulls.
wind to bring some within easy
range of a birdwatcher ashore.
VOICE Usually silent away from
breeding sites.
NESTING Shallow scrape on open
ground in Arctic tundra; 2 eggs;
1 brood; June.
FEEDING Eats lemmings and
seabirds in summer; otherwise fish,
stolen from other birds, and offal.
OCCURRENCE
SIMILAR SPECIES Breeds in extreme NE Europe. On
passage mostly found in North Sea
GREAT SKUA and Atlantic. Occurs in variable
smaller and see p.202
slimmer numbers: usually scarce; at times
concentrated movements in
pale spring; occasional larger, more
upperwings prolonged influxes in late autumn
bigger, with dark tip
broader- to North Sea; very few in winter.
ARCTIC SKUA winged HERRING GULL Seen in the UK
see p.204 immature; see p.209 J F M A M J J A S O N D
Length 46 – 51cm (18 – 20in) Wingspan 1.13 –1.25m (33⁄ 4 – 4ft) Weight 550 – 900g (20 – 32oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan 10 –15 years Status Secure†
203
SKUAS, GULLS, AND TERNS
breast-band
white flash brown back
ADULT
(PALE FORM)
small white
patch on
outer wings whitish
blue-grey legs with underside
blackish toes
sharp central ADULT
spike to tail (DARK FORM)
(shorter on
juvenile)
IN FLIGHT
ADULT
plain dark tail coverts (PALE FORM)
(barred above and
below on juvenile) dark brown body
(juvenile more
rufous)
ADULT
Length 37– 44cm (141⁄ 2 –171⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 0.97–1.15m (31⁄ 4 – 33⁄ 4 ft) Weight 380 – 600g (13 – 21oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan 10 –15 years Status Secure†
204
SKUAS, GULLS, AND TERNS
dark grey-brown
trailing above ADULT
edge (SUMMER)
ADULT brown
(SUMMER)
white breast
body
IN FLIGHT
dark belly
broad
very long, pale bars
whip-like under tail
central tail
spike JUVENILE
ADULT (DARK FORM)
(SUMMER)
Length 35 – 41cm (14 –16in) Wingspan 1.05 –1.12m (31⁄ 2 – 33⁄ 4 ft) Weight 250 – 450g (9 –16oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Secure†
205
SKUAS, GULLS, AND TERNS
IMMATURE
(1ST WINTER)
white head with
dark ear spot deep red
white front
legs
of wings
vivid red dark rear
bill edge
vivid red
legs
Length 34 – 37cm (131⁄ 2 –141⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 1–1.1m (31⁄ 4 – 31⁄ 2 ft) Weight 225 – 350g (8 –13oz)
Social Large flocks Lifespan 10 –15 years Status Secure
206
SKUAS, GULLS, AND TERNS
large white
spot on black bold white crescent
wingtips between grey back mid-grey back
and black wingtips
ADULT white spots on
(WINTER) wingtips
black band
on white brown wings, fading
tail to buff, with dark
brown tips ADULT
grey back (WINTER)
green to yellow-
IMMATURE green legs
IN FLIGHT (1ST WINTER)
pale buff-
wings fade pink legs green legs
much paler
ADULT FLIGHT: fluent, easy, relaxed; few glides; little or no
IMMATURE (1ST SUMMER) (SUMMER) soaring.
R ather like the Herring Gull in its general pattern, the Common Gull is not
as common in many areas and even in winter, when it is more widespread,
it has a curiously local distribution. In England, for example, it is abundant on fields
in some counties but quite scarce in others nearby. It becomes adult in three years,
taking longer than the smaller gulls but a year or two less than the larger species.
The plumage changes that occur with age and season are easily seen but, as with
other gulls, male and female are alike.
VOICE Loud, high, nasal, squealing kee-ee-ya, kee-ar-ar-ar-ar, short gagagaga.
NESTING Pad of grass on ground or low stump; 2 or 3 eggs; 1 brood; May–June.
FEEDING Takes worms, insects, fish, and molluscs from ground or water.
OCCURRENCE
SIMILAR SPECIES Widespread but local, breeding on
coasts and moors in N and NW
HERRING GULL paler YELLOW- Europe. In winter, on farmland,
see p.209 LEGGED GULL
see p.210 especially grassy pastures, all kinds
red spot of coasts, reservoirs, some on tips,
bigger yellow
on bill but generally more unevenly
bill with
bigger BLACK-HEADED distributed than Black-headed Gull
red spot
and GULL winter; and less universally common.
pink legs
paler white triangle
on outer wings; Seen in the UK
see p.206 J F M A M J J A S O N D
Length 38 – 44cm (15 –171⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 1.05 –1.25m (31⁄ 2 – 4ft) Weight 300 – 500g (11–18oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Declining
207
SKUAS, GULLS, AND TERNS
white wingtips
long black wingtips
white
underwings
white wingtips
with no black
IMMATURE
black spots (2ND WINTER)
on white
wingtips
red to
black legs black hood; white
white eyelids
wingtips
ADULT
(WINTER) ADULT
(SUMMER)
Length 36 – 38cm (14 –15in) Wingspan 0.98 –1.05m (31⁄ 4 – 31⁄ 2 ft) Weight 200 – 350g (7–13oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan 10 –15 years Status Secure
208
SKUAS, GULLS, AND TERNS
ADULT ADULT
(WINTER) (SUMMER)
grey-brown-
streaked
head pale pink
ADULT legs
IN FLIGHT
(SUMMER)
ADULT
(WINTER)
SUBSPECIES
O ften considered a nuisance in
towns, where it breeds on rooftops FLIGHT: steady, powerful, with continual easy
and begins calling very loudly, early on wingbeats; masterly soaring, gliding.
L. a. argentatus
(Scandinavia)
winter
summer mornings, the Herring Gull has larger,
actually declined over much of Europe. It is mainly darker
a bird of sea cliffs in summer, but roams over all grey
kinds of shorelines and far inland, feeding on tips
less black
and roosting on large reservoirs. Flocks returning to on wingtips
evening roosts in long lines or “V”s look dramatic.
In winter, groups typically forage around outflows
from pipes and sewers, around small harbours, or
out on the mudflats at low tide.
VOICE Loud, squealing notes, yelps, barks, kyow,
kee-yow-yow-yow, ga-ga-ga, kuk-kuk.
NESTING Grass-lined nest on ground, cliff ledge, IMMATURE
or building; 2 or 3 eggs; 1 brood; May. It takes about four years for the clear
FEEDING Takes fish, molluscs, insects, offal, and grey back and whiter underside to
scraps of all kinds from ground or water. gradually appear.
Length 55 – 67cm (22 – 26in) Wingspan 1.3 –1.6m (41⁄ 4 – 51⁄ 4 ft) Weight 750 –1,250g (27– 45oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan 10 – 20 years Status Secure
209
SKUAS, GULLS, AND TERNS
pale to deep
IN FLIGHT ADULT
yellow legs
Length 55 – 65cm (22 – 26in) Wingspan 1.3 –1.5m (41⁄ 4 – 5ft) Weight 750 –1200g (27– 43oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Secure†
210
SKUAS, GULLS, AND TERNS
black bill
mottled, dark
brown body
ADULT
dull yellow (WINTER)
back turns legs
dark grey
IMMATURE
(1ST YEAR)
IMMATURE
long wingtips
(2ND YEAR)
Length 52 – 67cm (201⁄ 2 – 26in) Wingspan 1.28 –1.48m (41⁄ 4 – 43⁄ 4 ft) Weight 650 –1,000g (23 – 36oz)
Social Large flocks Lifespan 10 –15 years Status Secure
211
SKUAS, GULLS, AND TERNS
whitish head
dark flight
feathers
ADULT (SUMMER) pale
large yellow bill head
black back with red spot
ADULT
(WINTER)
IN FLIGHT
white head
pale greyish,
ADULT whitish, or
(WINTER) pink legs
Length 64 –78cm (25 – 31in) Wingspan 1.5 –1.7m (5 – 51⁄ 2 ft) Weight 1– 2.1kg (21⁄ 4 – 43⁄ 4 lb)
Social Flocks Lifespan 10 – 20 years Status Secure
212
SKUAS, GULLS, AND TERNS
IMMATURE
ADULT (1ST WINTER) brown on neck and
(WINTER) back becomes grey
in winter
IMMATURE
(2ND SUMMER)
IN FLIGHT pale head, with dark bill
dark markings black head
increasing in spring and bill
pale wingtips pearly grey
pale grey back back
black on
underwings red legs
may be
visible
ADULT
ADULT
(SUMMER)
(WINTER)
Length 25 – 27cm (10 –101⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 70 –77cm (28 – 30in) Weight 90 –150g (31⁄ 4 – 5oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan 5 –10 years Status Declining
213
SKUAS, GULLS, AND TERNS
ADULT
(WINTER)
pale pink bill
with sharp short white
black tip wingtips ADULT
(WINTER)
pale pink legs
IMMATURE
(1ST WINTER)
IN FLIGHT
barred, mottled,
oatmeal-brown
plumage
ivory-buff
wingtips
IMMATURE
(1ST WINTER,
pale tail FADED) FLIGHT: majestic, often gliding and soaring; strong,
deep wingbeats in rather sluggish direct flight.
Length 62 –70cm (24 – 28in) Wingspan 1.42 –1.62m (43⁄ 4 – 51⁄ 4 ft) Weight 1– 2kg (21⁄ 4 – 41⁄ 2 lb)
Social Flocks Lifespan 10 – 20 years Status Secure
214
SKUAS, GULLS, AND TERNS
long wings
pale grey
back
IMMATURE
(1ST WINTER)
ADULT
IMMATURE short legs (WINTER)
(1ST WINTER) wingtips
extend well
beyond tail
ADULT
(WINTER)
IN FLIGHT
white wingtips
Length 52 – 60cm (201⁄ 2 – 231⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 1.3 –1.45m (41⁄ 4 – 43⁄ 4 ft) Weight 750 –1000g (27– 36oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Secure†
215
SKUAS, GULLS, AND TERNS
collar turns
IMMATURE
(1ST WINTER)
JUVENILE
COMMON GULL
spots on Seen in the UK
see p.207 wingtips
J F M A M J J A S O N D
Length 38 – 40cm (15 –16in) Wingspan 0.95 –1.1m (3 – 31⁄ 2 ft) Weight 300 – 500g (11–18oz)
Social Large flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Secure
216
SKUAS, GULLS, AND TERNS
IN FLIGHT
JUVENILE
white forehead
orange to
yellow legs
S mall, quick, nervous, and now rare, the Little Tern is a lively coastal
bird; it is rare inland but seen along most coasts. Its pale colours
and small size are usually obvious at first glance, especially in flight.
FLIGHT: quick, flickering wingbeats; hovers briefly
with very quick whirring beats.
At its nesting colonies, it is noisy and TINY TERNS
aggressive to intruders but easily disturbed Little Terns are smaller and whiter
– most colonies are on popular beaches than Common Terns which do not
and now succeed only if specially have white foreheads all year round.
protected. Climate change, causing a rise
in the sea level, also threatens this bird,
which often nests right at the edge of
the sea and risks losing eggs and chicks
to high tides.
VOICE Sharp, high, rapid chattering kirri-kirri-kirri and kitititit.
NESTING Shallow scoop on sand or shingle beach; 2 or 3 eggs; 1 brood; May–June.
FEEDING Plunges for fish after a brief, whirring hover, fast but light with quick
“smack” into water, often near beach.
Length 22 – 24cm (9 – 91⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 48 – 55cm (19 – 22in) Weight 50 – 65g (13⁄ 4 – 23⁄ 8 oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Declining
217
SKUAS, GULLS, AND TERNS
ADULT white
(SUMMER) underside
short white
tail with
very pale shallow fork
silver-grey wings
black legs
IN FLIGHT
ADULT
swagger, much more so than the smaller Common and Arctic Terns. FLIGHT: strong, direct; wings long and angular, tail
It is equally distinctive in flight, looking very white, which helps to short; regular shallow wingbeats.
emphasize its size.The Sandwich Tern
BUSY COLONY
plunges for fish from a good height, Sandwich Tern colonies on sand
with a loud “smack” as it enters the dunes are large, containing
water. It is easily disturbed at the nesting hundreds of nests.
colony and prone to desert, even after
several good breeding seasons.
VOICE Loud, harsh, rhythmic kerr-ink
or kear-ik!
NESTING Shallow scoop in sand or
shingle; 1 or 2 eggs; 1 brood; May–June.
FEEDING Catches fish, especially
sandeels, in dive from air.
SIMILAR SPECIES
OCCURRENCE
smaller and rounder cap thicker, shorter, Widespread but local breeding
greyer all-black bill
bird north to Baltic. Prefers sandy
bulkier coasts, shallow coastal lagoons,
and offshore islands. Rare migrant
short red inland but quite widely seen on all
legs white kinds of coasts.
forewing wedge
COMMON TERN GULL-BILLED TERN BLACK-HEADED GULL Seen in the UK
see p.220 see p.219 see p.206 J F M A M J J A S O N D
Length 36 – 41cm (14 –16in) Wingspan 95 –105cm (37– 43in) Weight 210 – 260g (7– 9oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Declining
218
SKUAS, GULLS, AND TERNS
Gull-billed Tern
thin dark band
white head with thick bill round black
on outer wings
black eye patch cap
stout
black
bill
pale ADULT
(SUMMER) ADULT
grey pale grey
tail (WINTER)
back
Length 35 – 42cm (14 –161⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 76 – 86cm (30 – 34in) Weight 200 – 250g (7– 9oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Endangered†
219
SKUAS, GULLS, AND TERNS
darker
outermost
feathers
on wings
long legs
Length 31– 35cm (12 –14in) Wingspan 82 – 95cm (32 – 37in) Weight 90 –150g (31⁄ 4 – 5oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Secure
220
SKUAS, GULLS, AND TERNS
Arctic Tern very pointed, round black cap short red bill
tapered (with whiter (blacker in
very pale wingtips
outer wings forehead in winter)
winter)
thin dark
line on
translucent ADULT white tail with thin line on
flight (SUMMER) long outer outer edge
feathers streamers of wings
grey back
looks neckless, ADULT
short-billed
IN FLIGHT
grey
underside
short legs
Length 32 – 35cm (121⁄ 2 –14in) Wingspan 80 – 95cm (32 – 37in) Weight 80 –110g (27⁄ 8 – 4oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Secure
221
SKUAS, GULLS, AND TERNS
IN FLIGHT
SIMILAR SPECIES
OCCURRENCE
COMMON TERN dark band SANDWICH TERN ARCTIC TERN Scattered very locally in Great
on tip of underwings in see p.218 see p.221
flight; see p.220 Britain, Ireland, and NW France,
spiky crest
pale-tipped greyer breeding in small numbers on
black bill vegetated islands. Scarce or rare
migrant off headlands or at mouth
greyer of estuaries; extremely rare inland.
shorter
legs Seen in the UK
J F M A M J J A S O N D
Length 33 – 38cm (13 –15in) Wingspan 75 – 80cm (30 – 32in) Weight 95 –130g (33⁄ 8 – 5oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Endangered
222
SKUAS, GULLS, AND TERNS
red bill
with black
marks
near tip
ADULT
(SUMMER)
long black
legs
IN FLIGHT
square head
and thick
neck
dull bill
SIMILAR SPECIES
OCCURRENCE
SANDWICH TERN longer COMMON TERN Most breed in Baltic Sea on low
slimmer see p.218 tail see p.220
bill islands and coasts. Rare migrant in
E Europe and Mediterranean, rarer
still in Atlantic and North Sea.
thin
smaller Usually coastal, very rare on lakes
black bill
and reservoirs inland.
ROYAL TERN smaller and short red Seen in the UK
paler under wingtips slimmer
in flight; see p.431 legs
J F M A M J J A S O N D
Length 48 – 55cm (19 – 22in) Wingspan 0.96 –1.11m (3 – 33⁄ 4 ft) Weight 200 – 250g (7–9oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Endangered†
223
SKUAS, GULLS, AND TERNS
pale underwings
blackish
ADULT bill
(SUMMER)
white
sharp under
wings tail blackish
legs
browner body white dark chest
IN FLIGHT than adult’s forehead spot
ADULT
(SUMMER)
dark
forewings dark
chest spot
Length 22 – 24cm (9 – 91⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 63 – 68cm (25 – 27in) Weight 50 –75g (13⁄ 4 – 25⁄ 8 oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Declining
224
SKUAS, GULLS, AND TERNS
blackish
belly
ADULT
dark red (SUMMER)
black ear legs
coverts
pale grey
streaked back
grey rear crown
rump IMMATURE
and nape
(1ST WINTER)
ADULT
(WINTER)
dark
brownish legs ADULT
IN FLIGHT
(WINTER)
Length 24 – 28cm (93⁄ 4 – 11in) Wingspan 57– 63cm (221⁄ 2 –25in) Weight 70 – 80g (21⁄ 2 – 27⁄ 8 oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Declining
225
SKUAS, GULLS, AND TERNS
slender
wings
WINTER
white
trailing
edge
white streaks
on shoulders
IN FLIGHT
black of back extends as
WINTER point on to sides of chest
all-black head
FLIGHT: fast, low; wings longish, slightly swept and breast
back, wader-like but blur of fast, whirring beats.
T he smallest auk, and the most northerly, the Little Auk is rare in
most of Europe and best known as a late autumn visitor to the
North Sea. In some years, large numbers appear; in others it is scarce.
SUMMER
In “good” years, autumn gales may sweep a few score well inland.
Breeding colonies are often huge, with vast numbers of birds flying
around overhead, often very high up beside towering cliffs. Fit, alert
birds swim with head raised and tail cocked, while tired or sick
birds are hunched, with drooped wings.They are
vulnerable to predators such as gulls and skuas, or
even crows, when they are exhausted and driven
inland.The Little Auk opens its wings slightly as it
dives for food, and returns to the surface like a cork,
swimming buoyantly on the roughest seas, but tired
birds on inland waters are often inactive.
VOICE Shrill, twittering, or chattering notes and
trills; silent at sea.
NESTING Burrow high above shore; 1 egg;
1 brood; June. STORM-BLOWN MIGRANTS
FEEDING Dives for fish, plankton, and crustaceans. In late autumn, some Little Auks are driven close inshore by gales. They
may be seen unexpectedly over rocky shores or wide, sandy beaches.
SIMILAR SPECIES
OCCURRENCE
RAZORBILL Breeds in Arctic on islands. Mostly
larger see p.230
large, rare late autumn or winter visitor
thick
triangular bill to NW Europe, sometimes briefly
bill numerous in North Sea after
northerly gales. Rare storm-blown
birds appear inland.
PUFFIN Seen in the UK
see p.227 J F M A M J J A S O N D
Length 17–19cm (61⁄ 2 –71⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 40 – 48cm (16 –19in) Weight 140 –170g (5 – 6oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Secure†
226
SKUAS, GULLS, AND TERNS
Puffin disc-like,
grey-white
sides of face
dark eye
deep, triangular
bill, patterned
blue-grey, orange,
yellow, and red
black upperparts
plain black
and neck
wings
ADULT
(SUMMER)
ADULT
(SUMMER)
white
IN FLIGHT underside
grooves on
smaller, duller bill (loses
bill increase
colourful sheath)
with age
FLIGHT: fast, direct, low; wingbeats quick,
whirring; may fly higher over sea or when circling dusky grey face
colony in flocks. (as on juvenile)
Length 26 – 29cm (10 –111⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 47– 63cm (181⁄ 2 – 25in) Weight 310 – 500g (11–18oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan 10 – 20 years Status Vulnerable
227
SKUAS, GULLS, AND TERNS
JUVENILE
bold white
ADULT wing patch
(SUMMER)
smoky black
body bright
IN FLIGHT red legs
ADULT
(SUMMER)
SIMILAR SPECIES
OCCURRENCE
no white wing PUFFIN stumpy tail blacker Breeds on coasts in N Europe,
patches see p.227 above
thick bill usually around rocky islets with
boulders and cavities in rocks.
Usually resident, only rare
elsewhere in winter. Strictly
marine, extremely rare inland.
black
GUILLEMOT winter; wings SLAVONIAN GREBE Seen in the UK
see p.229 winter; see p.62 J F M A M J J A S O N D
Length 30 – 32cm (12 –121⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 52 – 58cm (201⁄ 2 – 23in) Weight 340 – 450g (12 –16oz)
Social Family groups Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Declining
228
SKUAS, GULLS, AND TERNS
long
neck
white underparts,
short, swims low
rounded against
square
black throat
tail
ADULT (SUMMER)
black line through dark cap
upright eye on white face
posture ( juvenile similar)
ADULT
dark
(SUMMER)
rump with
narrow
white sides
white trailing
edge
ADULT
IN FLIGHT (SUMMER)
ADULT (WINTER)
G uillemots, along
with Kittiwakes,
usually dominate
FLIGHT: low, fast, direct, little manoeuvrability;
fast, almost whirring wingbeats; sweeps up to land
seabird colonies which on ledge.
densely pack ledges of sea cliffs
in summer. Guillemots swim offshore in large “rafts”
under the cliffs. Off headlands, they are often seen flying
by, low and fast. In winter, however, they are seen inshore
only during or after gales. In the south of their range,
they are quite brown and easily
distinguished from Razorbills;
northern birds are blacker and
more difficult to identify.
VOICE At colony, loud, LARGE FLOCKS
whirring, growling chorus, arrrr- Large flocks of Guillemots
rr-rr; juveniles make surprisingly swim on the sea under the
loud, musical whistle at sea. breeding colonies.
NESTING On bare ledge on
LARGE COLONIES
sheer cliff; 1 egg; 1 brood; Guillemots crowd steep
May–June. coastal cliffs in the breeding
FEEDING Dives from surface to season; colonies are often
catch fish deep underwater. mixed with Razorbills.
SIMILAR SPECIES
OCCURRENCE
RAZORBILL BRUNNICH’S GUILLEMOT Breeds on rocky coasts of Iceland,
see p.230 see p.433 longer
thicker bill wings Scandinavia, Great Britain, Ireland,
flatter thicker,
blunter with white NW France, Spain, and Portugal,
head
bill streak chiefly on sheer cliffs, also on flat-
pointed
smaller topped stacks. Scarce inshore in
tail
winter, even after gales.
MANX
SHEARWATER Seen in the UK
see p.67 J F M A M J J A S O N D
. Length 38 – 54cm (15 – 211⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 64 –73cm (25 – 29in) Weight 850 –1,130g (30 – 40oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan 10 – 20 years Status Secure
229
SKUAS, GULLS, AND TERNS
black head
white line
on bill
pointed thick,
tail white throat flattened
and breast bill
ADULT
broad (SUMMER)
ADULT (WINTER)
white
sides to
dark rump
black upperparts
white
underside
IN FLIGHT
SIMILAR SPECIES
OCCURRENCE
smaller BRUNNICH’S GUILLEMOT stubby, PUFFIN Breeds on rocky coasts from
head sharp, see p.433 triangular bill see p.227
dagger- Iceland south to NW France,
like bill usually on cliffs with cavities or
boulder scree. Widespread in
winter but scarce inshore. Very
rare inland even after gales.
Length 37– 39cm (141⁄ 2 –151⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 63 – 67cm (25– 26in) Weight 590 –730g (21– 26oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan 10 – 20 years Status Secure
230
PIGEONS AND DOVES/CUCKOOS
Family Columbidae
Family Cuculidae
CUCKOOS
E UROPE HAS TWO SPECIES but there are many
cuckoos elsewhere; they are brood parasites,
laying their eggs in the nests of other species
which then unwittingly rear their young. Hence
PARASITE cuckoos are not found in family groups.
A young Cuckoo Cuckoos have short, curved bills, small heads,
soon outgrows its rather long, broad tails, and wide-based, tapered
parent, such as this
Reed Warbler, which
wings that give a curious appearance in flight,
will feed it for days. beating below body level.
231
PIGEONS AND DOVES
pale
grey
white back
big white underwings
two broad,
patch on
long black
back
bars across
wings
dark
tail band
IN FLIGHT
larger white
spot
dark
underside
SIMILAR SPECIES
OCCURRENCE
WOODPIGEON STOCK DOVE PEREGRINE similar Breeds on coasts of Great Britain
white on wings see p.233 in flight;
in flight; see p.143 and Ireland all year round; also on
rounder
see p.234 cliffs in S Europe. Feral birds
tiny dark longer
tail widespread, from coastal cliffs to
wingbars
city centres, often feeding on
larger arable land.
longer
wings
Seen in the UK
J F M A M J J A S O N D
Length 31– 35cm (12 –14in) Wingspan 63 –70cm (25 – 28in) Weight 250 – 350g (9 –13oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Secure
232
PIGEONS AND DOVES
black wingtips
and trailing
edge grey underwings blue-grey
body deep wine-
pale midwings
pink breast
two short dark
bars on wings
IN FLIGHT
dark band
on tail
small, neat, round
head
bright pink-
red legs
A handsome bird of farms and parkland, the Stock Dove also finds
suitable nesting habitat in quarries and crags in remote upland
areas. It is slightly smaller than a Woodpigeon, rounder and blunter-
FLIGHT: fast, powerful; deep wingbeats; display
flight gliding on steeply raised wings, rocking from
winged than a “racing pigeon” or the town pigeon of city streets. side to side.
It is easily overlooked, but its song is distinctive and
display flights frequently draw attention to it. It
regularly mixes with more numerous Woodpigeons, SOCIAL BIRD
Evening gatherings
Jackdaws (see p.368), and Rooks (see p.369) when can be large, but
feeding in fields, and roosts with them in woodland. are often out-
VOICE Deep, rhythmic, booming coo, repeated several numbered by
times with increased emphasis, ooo-woo ooo-woo. Woodpigeons in
NESTING Tree hole, ledge, or cavity in building, woodland roosts.
quarry, or cliff; 2 eggs;
2 or 3 broods; all year. GROUND
FEEDING Forages FEEDER
Seeds are washed
widely on ground
up at the edges of
looking for seeds, freshwater floods,
grain, buds, shoots, and Stock Doves
roots, leaves, and often gather to
berries; does not exploit such abun-
visit gardens. dance of food.
Length 32 – 34cm (121⁄ 2 –131⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 63 – 69cm (25 – 27in) Weight 290 – 330g (11 –12oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Secure
233
PIGEONS AND DOVES
Woodpigeon
no white bold white
on neck patch on each
large white side of neck
patch across
midwings
grey back
duller, less
clean look
white
on wings
rump
paler than deep
back pink
ADULT JUVENILE breast
IN FLIGHT
dull red
legs
ADULT
country areas where it is regularly
shot, but visits gardens and becomes surprisingly tame in
town parks where it is left undisturbed. It sometimes forms
huge flocks, becoming a dramatic part of the country scene FLIGHT: quick, direct, with even, strong, deep
in winter. In summer, its dreamy, cooing song is one of the wingbeats; takes off with powerful clatter when
typical sounds of woodland areas. Single birds in flight can surprised; flies in large flocks.
easily be mistaken for birds of prey,
but any reasonable view should
remove such confusion.
VOICE Husky, muffled cooing, oft-
repeated, coo-coo-cu, cu-coo, cook; loud
wing clatter.
NESTING Thin platform of twigs in
tree or bush; 2 eggs; 1 or 2 broods;
April–September (often autumn).
FEEDING Eats buds, leaves, berries,
and fruit in trees; also takes food FORAGING ON GROUND
from ground; feeds at bird-tables The Woodpigeon often forages for food on the ground,
where undisturbed. sometimes in flocks. It takes seeds, grain, and shoots.
OCCURRENCE
SIMILAR SPECIES Widespread except in Iceland and
N Scandinavia; summer visitor only
STOCK DOVE ROCK DOVE COLLARED DOVE in N and E Europe. Breeds in
see p.233 white rump; see p.235
no white see p.232 variety of woodland and farmland
bluer smaller
grey on wings with trees, town parks, and big
or neck smaller
gardens. In winter, flocks feed on
open ground but farmland
smaller
remains most important.
shorter longer
Seen in the UK
tail tail
J F M A M J J A S O N D
Length 40 – 42cm (16 –161⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 75 – 80cm (30 – 32in) Weight 480 – 550g (17– 20oz)
Social Large flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Secure
234
PIGEONS AND DOVES
grey area on
upperwings thin black collar
on back of neck
dark wingtips
pale, grey-
brown body subtle pink
ADULT small head
head and
breast
red legs
no collar
sandy buff
body
JUVENILE ADULT
Length 31– 33cm (12 –13in) Wingspan 47– 55cm (181⁄ 2 – 22in) Weight 150 – 220g (5 – 8oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Secure†
235
PIGEONS AND DOVES
IN FLIGHT pink
blackish breast
tail with
white tip pale brownish
head and neck white
belly
dull neck
patch ADULT
less regular
pattern dull brown
body
SIMILAR SPECIES
OCCURRENCE
KESTREL 32 COLLARED DOVE Summer visitor to most of Europe
similar in flight; paler, more
see p.235
see p.140 except Iceland, Ireland, and
uniform bigger
Scandinavia, declining in numbers.
bigger In wooded farmland, broadleaved
narrow woods with sunny clearings, and
tail
thick, old hedgerows.
longer,
straighter Seen in the UK
wings J F M A M J J A S O N D
Length 26 – 28cm (10 –11in) Wingspan 47– 53cm (181⁄ 2 – 21in) Weight 130 –180g (4 – 6oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Declining
236
CUCKOOS
yellow eye
curved bill
with yellow
base
long medium
wings pale spot grey head
on nape and chest
pale band
under wings
ADULT
dark, ADULT JUVENILE
white-
spotted
tail
IN FLIGHT medium grey
dark
wingtips upperparts
grey bars
on white
brown back underside
with dark bars
ADULT
broad rufous
and black
bars on tail
JUVENILE
Length 32 – 34cm (121⁄ 2 –131⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 55 – 65cm (22 – 26in) Weight 105 –130g (4 – 5oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Secure
237
OWLS/NIGHTJARS
OWLS
O WLS ARE highly
specialized birds with
exellent eyesight and hearing.
SUDDEN POUNCE
A Tengmalm’s Owl swoops onto
prey located by using its eyes
They see well in low light and ears. Its softly fringed flight
feathers minimize wing noise.
levels, although not in complete
darkness, and many can pinpoint
prey accurately by sound alone.
Their ears are slightly asymmetrical
in size, shape, or position. As an owl
twists and bobs its head it is using
this adaptation to get a “fix” on
its prey. Owls often attract the
attention of smaller birds (and also
sometimes Jays and Magpies) if
discovered by day, and mixed parties
“mob” the roosting owl with loud calls,
sometimes diving at its head.
BREEDING STRATEGIES
Some owls have fixed territories and rear small broods
each year. Others are nomads, breeding wherever there is
plentiful food. They lay many eggs but only in years with an
adequate food supply do many chicks survive. The Tawny
and Tengmalm’s are typical woodland owls; Scops and Little
Owls live in more open surroundings. The Eagle Owl is a
massive and powerful predator, as is the Snowy Owl of far
northern tundras. The two “eared” owls are very alike in
plumage pattern and overall shape, and both hunt over open
ground. The Short-eared Owl lives on heaths and marshes FORWARD SWING
and hunts even in full daylight, while the Long-eared Owls can swing their whole body forward, to grip with
inhabits woods and thickets and hunts only after dark. their feet, whether while landing or striking prey.
Family Caprimulgidae
NIGHTJARS
S UMMER MIGRANTS to Europe, taking
advantage of an abundance of moths, the
nightjars spend the day motionless and emerge
at dusk to feed. These remarkably agile, light-
weight fliers have large wings and tail. Their
strange songs help to identify them. Nightjars
occupy open heathland or lightly wooded
places with wide clearings, often flying around
CAMOUFLAGE
A Nightjar at rest is usually
bush tops and trees to catch moths in flight.
exceptionally difficult to spot. It is They may approach people at dusk, as if
rare even to flush one by chance. curious about intruders in their territory.
238
OWLS
short wings
and tail
ADULT
T his is the owl that hoots after dark, but its vocal
repertoire is quite wide and a loud, yapping ke-wik is
heard more regularly through the year than the beautiful,
wavering hoot. It is often seen merely as a large, big-
headed silhouette, or a vague shape flying from a roadside
pole at night. Sometimes small birds mob it by day, giving
away its presence, or it can be found in trees or ivy
NIGHT HUNTER
above splashes of white droppings. It can then be Tawny Owls begin to call at dusk
watched quite closely with care and proves to be an but only start to hunt when it is
impressive and extremely beautiful bird. quite dark.
VOICE Loud, excited yapping notes, variations on
nasal ke-wick! or keeyip; long, musical, breathy,
quavering hoot, hoo hoo-hoooo hoo-ho-ho.
NESTING Hole in tree or building or in old stick
nest of crow or Magpie; 2–5 eggs; 1 brood;
April–June.
FEEDING Drops down to take voles, mice, rats,
frogs, beetles, and earthworms from ground; catches
many small birds as they are roosting or incubating
eggs at night.
Length 37– 39cm (141⁄ 2 –151⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 94 –104cm (37– 41in) Weight 330 – 590g (12 – 21oz)
Social Family groups Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Secure
239
OWLS
IN FLIGHT
Length 59 –73cm (23 – 29in) Wingspan 1.38 –1.7m (41⁄ 2 – 51⁄ 2 ft) Weight 1.5 –3kg (31⁄ 4 – 61⁄ 2 lb)
Social Solitary Lifespan 10 –20 years Status Vulnerable
240
OWLS
large head
band of
whitish spots
beside back
Length 22 – 27cm (9 –101⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 50 – 62cm (20 – 24in) Weight 150 – 200g (5 –7oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Secure†
241
OWLS
Long-eared Owl
long ear tufts,
pale patch on raised
outer wings dark surround to bright
orange-red eye ear tufts, folded
back
mottled
upperwings
dark wrist
patch
grey tips
IN FLIGHT
Length 35 –37cm (14 –141⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 84 – 95cm (33 – 37in) Weight 210 – 330g (7–12oz)
Social Roosts in small flocks Lifespan 10 –15 years Status Secure
242
OWLS
whitish underwings
row of pale with narrow dark
spots along bar at angle blackish ring
sides of back around large,
cold yellow eye
complex buff
marbling on
dark wrist upperparts
patch
white white
trailing belly
orange-buff
edge to yellowish
outer wings
IN FLIGHT
buff-white
underside
with fine
FLIGHT: low, wavering, quite quick, with slow dark streaks
beats of stiff wings, quite high upstroke; floating,
banking glides.
Length 34 – 42cm (131⁄ 2 –161⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 90 –105cm (35 – 41in) Weight 260 – 350g (9 –13oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan 10 –15 years Status Vulnerable†
243
OWLS
eyebrows
shortish, round
large, pale yellow eye,
wings, barred brown
circled with black
and cream
cream-buff
spots on liver-
brown back
complex
IN FLIGHT
wavy streaks
on pale
underside
W idespread in Europe,
and long established after
introduction in Great Britain, the
Little Owl is small, chunky, flat-
headed, and short-tailed. It can
appear very round when perched
out in the open by day, but may FLIGHT: distinctive bounding, undulating action
stretch upwards to look more with bursts of quick wingbeats between downward
elongated when alarmed. It swoops; sweeps upwards to perch.
hunts at dusk but sometimes
SQUAT SILHOUETTE
perches quite openly in daylight, often attracting A rounded, short-tailed, thin-
the noisy attention of small birds. Its undulating legged shape on a post or branch
flight may briefly recall a woodpecker or large at dusk is likely to be a Little Owl.
thrush. In much of Europe, it lives in ruins and old
barns with tiled roofs, or on hillsides with boulders
and stones scattered over the slopes.
VOICE Loud, musical, plaintive calls, rising keeeooo,
sharper werro!, short kip kip kip.
NESTING In long, narrow hole in tree, bank, or
building; 2–5 eggs; 1 brood; May–July.
FEEDING Mostly takes small rodents and large
insects from ground; also picks small birds and
earthworms from ground.
OCCURRENCE
SIMILAR SPECIES Widespread resident through
Europe north to Great Britain and
SCOPS OWL TAWNY OWL SHORT-EARED OWL Baltic. In great variety of terrain,
different see p.239 see p.243
habitat and on open rocky slopes and islands,
behaviour; dark eye much farmland and parkland with old
see p.245 larger trees and outbuildings, and even
much long semi-desert areas with tumbled
larger wings rocks and cliffs.
slim body;
sharp ear Seen in the UK
tufts J F M A M J J A S O N D
Length 21– 23cm (81⁄ 2 – 9in) Wingspan 50 – 56cm (20 – 22in) Weight 140 – 200g (5 –7oz)
Social Family groups Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Declining
244
OWLS
narrow head
with flat top
yellow eye, dark edging on
ringed black facial disc
complex
patterning
seen only at
close range
IN FLIGHT
Length 19 – 21cm (71⁄ 2 – 81⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 47– 54cm (181⁄ 2 – 211⁄ 2 in) Weight 150g (5oz)
Social Family groups Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Declining†
245
OWLS
black eyes
white
underwings
pale buff upperside
big head
short tail
IN FLIGHT
Length 33 – 39cm (13 –151⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 85 – 93cm (34 – 37in) Weight 290 – 460g (10 –16oz)
Social Family groups Lifespan 5 –10 years Status Declining
246
NIGHTJARS
long tail
MALE FEMALE
elongated
body and tail
FEMALE MALE
IN FLIGHT
Length 26 – 28cm (10 –11in) Wingspan 54 – 60cm (211⁄ 2 – 231⁄ 2 in) Weight 75 –100g (25⁄ 8 – 35⁄ 8 oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Declining†
247
SWIFTS
Family Apodidae
SWIFTS
N O BIRDS ARE MORE specialized than the
swifts.They have tiny bills but large, broad
mouths, in which they catch flying insects.Their
tapered bodies and long, stiff, scythe-shaped
wings are aerodynamically ideal for sustained
flight.They have a good turn of speed when
displaying, but generally feed at a much slower
pace, gliding efficiently and turning dextrously
to catch their small prey.
Their feet are minute, with all four toes
pointing forwards, just enough to cling to
JUVENILE MARKINGS
a rough surface but making it impossible for Young swifts look very like their parents, but can be told at very close
them to perch on a wire or twig: indeed, they range by the fine whitish fringes to their feathers. Once they fly from the
are almost never seen settled, as they dive into nest they may not settle again for three years.
the cavities where they nest with no
discernible pause. Identification can be difficult, but good views
Swifts have become extremely reliant on reveal differences in shape and pattern between
buildings for nesting and few now nest most species. All are social birds, often flying in
in holes in cliffs or trees. However, fast-moving, closely packed groups during the
modern buildings are useless to breeding season. They arrive late in
swifts, which concentrate on spring and leave in late summer for
old housing and structures Africa. There, they feed in company
such as church towers. They with several similar species of
must face an uncertain future. African-nesting swifts.
SCREAMING PARTY
A group of Swifts dashes by at
rooftop height, with a chorus
of loud, piercing calls. This
seems to have a strong social
significance within the birds
of a breeding colony.
248
SWIFTS
ADULT
wings curved in
scythe shape,
sharply pointed
ADULT
JUVENILE
IN FLIGHT
ADULT
deeply forked
tail
FLIGHT: often slow, direct with long glides between
flurries of deep wingbeats, wings very rigid; also faster
dashing flights in groups with flickering wingbeats.
N o other bird is more aerial than the Swift. Immature Swifts may
spend three years aloft before returning to breed: like seabirds,
they come to land only to breed. Swifts appear in Europe late in
spring and depart for Africa early in autumn. Flocks fly very high or HIDDEN NESTER
at rooftop level; they are never seen perching on wires or clinging Swifts nest deep inside holes, mostly in older buildings,
to walls or roofs like martins or swallows.Their scythe-like wings rarely now in cliffs.
and loud, screaming calls make
identification simple, but Pallid Swifts in
southern Europe complicate the matter.
VOICE Loud, screeching, shrill screams
from flocks, shrreeee, sirrr.
NESTING Feather-lined cavity in
building, more rarely in cliff; 2 or 3 eggs;
1 brood; May–June. SCREAMING PARTIES
FEEDING Entirely aerial, taking flying Feeding Swifts fly much more slowly than may be
insects in bill. thought, but noisy, chasing groups are genuinely fast.
OCCURRENCE
SIMILAR SPECIES Widespread in summer except in
Iceland; arrives late and leaves
PALLID SWIFT SWALLOW early. Feeds over any kind of open
see p.250 see p.275
area, including towns, villages,
white belly blue above and some larger S European cities,
pale but needs old civic buildings and
larger
white below housing for nesting, usually
slightly throat larger excluded from new developments.
paler
ALPINE SWIFT
very different Seen in the UK
see p.251 shape
J F M A M J J A S O N D
Length 16 –17cm (61⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 42 – 48cm (161⁄ 2 –19in) Weight 36 – 50g (11⁄ 4 –13⁄ 4 oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Secure
249
SWIFTS
ADULT
wingtips
darker than
midwings
whitish
IN FLIGHT chin and
throat
JUVENILE
pale mud-brown
under wings (pale-
V ery like a common Swift, the Pallid Swift is perceptibly
paler and more mud- or clay-brown when seen well; it is
also broader-winged, shorter-tailed, and broader-headed.As it
edged feathers)
is so often seen flying against the sky, a good view may not be
ADULT
easy to achieve, but if it flies low against a darker background,
plumage differences should be visible. In many southern
European towns, both species are common, allowing
opportunities both for comparison and confusion. Pallid Swifts
have sometimes been seen well north of their usual range very FLIGHT: fast, typical swift-type flight on stiff,
late in the summer or autumn when swifts have normally long scythe-like wings, with slightly slower wingbeats;
since migrated to Africa, but this alone is not sufficient to longer glides than Swift on average.
identify late swifts such as Pallid: very occasionally, a common
Swift will linger as well. Such isolated wanderers outside the normal range need
careful observation for positive identification.
VOICE Scream like common Swift’s but usually falls in pitch, more disyllabic,
lower in pitch, but hard to separate with certainty.
NESTING Unlined cavity in roof space, old building, or wall; 2 or 3 eggs;
1 brood; May–June.
FEEDING Like Swift, takes food entirely in air, catching flying insects and drifting
spiders in its mouth.
Length 16 –18cm (61⁄ 2 –7in) Wingspan 39 – 46cm (151⁄ 2 –18in) Weight 50g (13⁄ 4 oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan 10 –15 years Status Secure†
250
SWIFTS
broad-based
wings with long,
scythe-like tips
dark brown
breast-band
white belly
short, well-
forked tail
dark under
tail
white underside
IN FLIGHT white chin
and throat,
difficult to
see
FLIGHT: strong, powerful, sweeping flight; easy,
graceful beats of stiff, scythe-like wings.
Length 20 – 23cm (8 – 9in) Wingspan 51– 58cm (20 – 23in) Weight 75 –100g (25⁄ 8 – 35⁄ 8 oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan 10 –15 years Status Secure†
251
KINGFISHERS, BEE-EATERS, ROLLERS, AND HOOPOE
KINGFISHERS, BEE-EATERS,
ROLLERS, AND HOOPOE
ROLLERS ALERT
T HESE SPECIES AND THE woodpeckers fall
between the swifts and nightjars and the
Passerines (perching or song birds) and are often
Rather crow-
like in character,
A Roller perches upright
on the edge of
a tree, looking
termed “near passerines”. They are grouped Rollers are much for prey.
here for convenience rather than for any more more colourful,
meaningful relationship. especially in mid-
summer when paler
KINGFISHERS feather edges have worn
The “original” kingfisher from which the family away to reveal the rich
takes its name, the European species is a fish-eater colours beneath.
(others are dry land birds that catch insects). It is
often first detected by its piercing call or a splash HOOPOE
as it dives for a fish. Striking and boldly patterned in a photograph,
the Hoopoe is often surprisingly inconspicuous
BEE-EATERS as it shuffles on the ground in the dappled light
True to their name, bee-eaters do eat bees and and shade beneath a hedge or
wasps, wiping away their stings against a perch, in a sunny orchard. Only
but they also catch many other insects in when it flies does it suddenly
their acrobatic, swooping and gliding catch the eye.
flight. They breed socially, nesting
in burrows in earth banks.
BOLDLY BARRED
The Hoopoe has broad
black and white bands
JEWEL-LIKE
over its back and wings.
The Bee-eater is a
beautifully patterned
bird, its mixture of
colours appealing
rather than gaudy.
FISHING
The European Kingfisher plunge-
dives into water to catch fish. A
transparent membrane protects
the eye during the dive.
252
KINGFISHERS, BEE-EATERS, ROLLERS, AND HOOPOE
vivid blue
streak orange and white
cheek patch
black bill
MALE
electric blue
upperside white chin
(slightly duller
on juvenile) black bill
IN FLIGHT
with red
base
MALE
MALE
FEMALE
M ost people seeing one for the first time think the Kingfisher is
surprisingly small: about Starling-sized or a little less. It is also,
despite its bright colours, much more unobtrusive than may be FLIGHT: low, direct, fast; poor manoeuvrability;
quick, almost whirring wingbeats.
expected: in the dappled shade of flickering foliage above rippling
water, it can be extremely hard to see. Often it is the sharp call that
gives it away, followed by a glimpse of a bright blue back flying off
over water, but sometimes it allows really close, clear views. It is
particularly vulnerable to hard winter
weather and populations consequently
fluctuate greatly from year to year.
Occasionally a Kingfisher will take
advantage of a garden pond full of
goldfish, but visits are usually brief as
OCCURRENCE
Kingfishers are shy birds and quick to In most of Europe, N to
fly off if disturbed. S Scotland, Baltic, and extreme
VOICE Quite loud, sharp, high kit- S Scandinavia. Summer visitor only
cheeee or cheee; also high, fast trill in in north and east of range, from
spring. which birds move southwest in
NESTING Deep tubular tunnel, lined winter. Along rivers and canals, on
with fish bones, in soft earth cliff over marshes, flooded pits, and coastal
areas including salt-marsh creeks,
water; 5–7 eggs; 2 broods; May–July.
especially in winter.
FEEDING Catches fish, small aquatic DRAMATIC DIVER
invertebrates, and amphibians in dive Seen in the UK
The Kingfisher makes a dramatic dive usually from a low
J F M A M J J A S O N D
from perch or mid-air hover. perch, but sometimes also from a brief hover.
Length 16 –17cm (61⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 24 – 26cm (91⁄ 2 –10in) Weight 35 – 40g (11⁄ 4 –17⁄ 16 oz)
Social Pairs Lifespan 5 –10 years Status Declining
253
KINGFISHERS, BEE-EATERS, ROLLERS, AND HOOPOE
dark wings
with bronze
patch golden-yellow
on shoulders large
yellow
throat
ADULT
central
spike to tail
(short on
juvenile)
red-brown back
(greener on
juvenile)
IN FLIGHT
clear green-blue
underside ADULT (AT NEST)
FLIGHT: rises on stiff, fast-beating wings; stalls, translucent silver and ADULT
circles, and glides down, or chases prey with further copper underwings
beats of wings and flat-winged glides.
ADULT
tail spike may
Length 27– 29cm (101⁄ 2 –111⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 36 – 40cm (14 –16in) Weight 50 –70g (13⁄ 4 –21⁄ 2 oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan 5 –10 years Status Declining
254
KINGFISHERS, BEE-EATERS, ROLLERS, AND HOOPOE
bright green-blue
closed wings
FLIGHT: direct, straight, with regular shallow wing-
beats, wings slightly angled; tumbling flight in display.
Length 30cm (12in) Wingspan 52 – 57cm (201⁄ 2 – 221⁄ 2 in) Weight 120 –190g (4 –7oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Declining†
255
KINGFISHERS, BEE-EATERS, ROLLERS, AND HOOPOE
small white
rump ADULT
pinkish to pink-beige
ADULT head and body
(juvenile duller)
slim, slightly
curved bill
IN FLIGHT
Length 26 – 28cm (10 –11in) Wingspan 44 – 48cm (171⁄ 2 –19in) Weight 60 –75g (21⁄8 –25⁄8oz)
Social Family groups Lifespan 5 –10 years Status Secure
256
WOODPECKERS AND WRYNECK
Family Picidae
WRYNECK
The Wryneck is brown, barred, and streaked,
and unlike other woodpeckers in its posture
(it does not so often use its tail as a prop),
although its calls and general behaviour indicate
a close relationship. An ant-eating specialist, it
often feeds on the ground. It is a migrant.
FADED GREEN
The Green Woodpecker in
NUT-FEEDER worn, faded late-summer
Great Spotted Woodpeckers wedge large plumage, looks more brown
nuts and seeds into bark for easier feeding, than green.
hammering them open with their bills.
257
WOODPECKERS AND WRYNECK
white
eye
slim
neck
MALE
IN FLIGHT
glossy
black
plumage
E asily the largest of the woodpeckers,
but not correspondingly any easier
to see, the Black Woodpecker is common
in woodland areas with big, mature beech
or pine trees. In winter, it wanders quite freely
through big gardens and suburban parks.
FEMALE
In much of Europe it is associated with
mountainous areas, but it is common in the lowlands
of northwest Europe. It can usually be detected by its loud calls, tail used as prop
while perching
or its bursts of “machine-gun” drumming, but is usually shy and upright
not easy to approach.
VOICE Loud, high, plaintive, long pyuuu; loud, rolling, far-carrying MALE
krri-krri-krri-krri-krri; loud Green Woodpecker-like laugh, louder,
more irregular. Long, loud drumming.
NESTING Large oval
hole, 9 x 12cm (31⁄ 2 x
5in) in diameter, in big FLIGHT: direct, strong, not undulating; head up,
tree; 4–6 eggs; 1 brood; wings beat mostly below body level; swoops up to
April–June. perch with quick flurry.
FEEDING Digs insect
larvae from tree branches
and trunks and fallen HEAVY FLIGHT
timber; eats ants on Although large and heavy, the shape is typical thin-
ground. necked, square-winged woodpecker in flight.
Length 40 – 46cm (16 –18in) Wingspan 67–73cm (26 – 29in) Weight 250 – 370g (9 –13 oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan Up to 10 years Status Secure
258
WOODPECKERS AND WRYNECK
Green Woodpecker
black moustache
black around with red centre
greenish barrel-shaped whitish eye MALE
yellow body
rump
vivid red cap
whitish-barred,
dark wings pale green
cheek
MALE
IN FLIGHT
apple-green
white spots upperside
on dull green
upperparts blackish spots and
streaks on face
and underside
all-black
moustache
greenish
yellow rump
JUVENILE
Length 30 – 33cm (12 –13in) Wingspan 40 – 42cm (16 –161⁄ 2 in) Weight 180 – 220g (6 – 8oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan 5 –10 years Status Declining
259
WOODPECKERS AND WRYNECK
bold black
large white and white
shoulder patch upperparts
barred wings
bright buff
MALE underside
IN FLIGHT
JUVENILE
MALE
no red
T he common woodpecker in most areas, the
Great Spotted announces itself in spring by a
loud drumming: a rapid, abrupt “drum roll” made
on nape
Length 22 – 23cm (9in) Wingspan 34 – 39cm (131⁄ 2 –151⁄ 2 in) Weight 70 – 90g (21⁄ 2 – 31⁄ 4 oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan 5 –10 years Status Secure
260
WOODPECKERS AND WRYNECK
MALE duller
cap than
male’s
white
shoulder
patch
IN FLIGHT
finely streaked
yellow-buff
underside
FEMALE
pinkish under tail
Length 19 – 22cm (71⁄ 2 – 9in) Wingspan 35cm (14in) Weight 60 –75g (21⁄ 8 –25⁄ 8 oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan 5 –10 years Status Secure
261
WOODPECKERS AND WRYNECK
MALE
short
tail some red
on crown
(more on
male)
IN FLIGHT
black back
with broad
white bars
barred
back
FEMALE buff-white
underside,
JUVENILE finely streaked
Length 14 –15cm (51⁄ 2 – 6in) Wingspan 25 – 27cm (10 –101⁄ 2 in) Weight 18 – 22g (5⁄ 8 –13⁄ 16 oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan 5 –10 years Status Secure
262
WOODPECKERS AND WRYNECK
pale spots
on wings
IN FLIGHT
A somewhat aberrant
woodpecker, the
Wryneck can appear more
like a big warbler or small,
slim thrush at times, depending
on the circumstances. It moves
about on the ground, flits up into trees
or bushes, or slips through foliage, but also clambers around on thick
branches and trunks of trees, although it usually perches across
branches rather than upright like the more common woodpeckers.
At moderate range it is rather dull and inconspicuous, but close FLIGHT: usually short flights, slightly undulating,
views reveal both an intricate pattern and clean, bright golden-buff with flurries of quick beats.
colours. Once located, the Wryneck may often be
watched really closely for long periods, especially on
migration. Occasionally it may then turn up in
unexpected places such as parks and gardens.
VOICE Quick, repeated, nasal notes, kwee-kee-kee-kee-
kee-kee-kee, lower than Kestrel’s or Lesser Spotted
Woodpecker’s.
NESTING Existing hole in tree or wall; 7–10 eggs;
1, occasionally 2, broods; May–June.
FEEDING Often on ground, eating ants and ant
larvae; various other insects, spiders, woodlice, and
some berries.
OCCURRENCE
SIMILAR SPECIES Widespread but scarce in summer,
except in Iceland, Ireland, UK,
BARRED WARBLER 32; and N Scandinavia. Breeds in
see p.315
plainer farmed countryside with trees,
plainer above copses, and more extensive pine
upperparts
or mixed forest; migrants often
CRYPTIC COLOURS near coast. Scarce migrant in UK,
lacks RED-BACKED
SHRIKE 2; The mottled pattern of a Wryneck chiefly in autumn.
bars on
wings perches more gives excellent camouflage against
openly; Seen in the UK
the bark of a tree and it can be
see p.357 J F M A M J J A S O N D
very difficult to spot.
Length 16 –17cm (61⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 25 – 27cm (10 –101⁄ 2 in) Weight 30 – 45g (11⁄ 16 –15⁄ 8 oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan 5 –10 years Status Declining
263
LARKS
Family Alaudidae
LARKS
A LMOST EXCLUSIVELY GROUND birds, except
when singing, larks are quite stocky but
long-bodied birds, bulkier than pipits or wagtails,
but less chunky than most finches. They have
thick, triangular bills – between the insect-eating
bill of a pipit and the seed-eating bill of a finch,
reflecting their varied diet. They fly strongly, with
quite long, often rather angular wings.
Larks have faintly short legs but long toes and
claws, especially the claws on their hind toes,
which seem to be an adaptation for walking
through grassy vegetation. They move easily STRONG FLIER
on the ground in a quick walk or run, and feed Skylarks have large wings: these give them a slightly thrush-like look in
on open ground: the Skylark, for example, will flight but their more angular wings have a straighter rear edge.
rarely feed in the shadow of a hedge, preferring
to keep well out in the open where it has a and songs are helpful but awkward plumage
good all-round view and from where it can fly points such as underwing colour (on Crested and
in any direction. Thekla Larks) can be hard to see and structural
Being birds of open spaces, larks have no differences (such as wingtip length on Short-toed
perches from which to sing: they do sing from and Lesser Short-toed Larks) can be frustratingly
the ground or a post, but are at their best when difficult to be sure of.
singing in a special high song-flight. The Skylark
sings for minutes on end in a simple rising hover,
while the Woodlark flies in wide circles as it sings.
Plumages of males and females, winter and
summer, are usually much alike, although some
juveniles are sufficiently different to look unusual.
Some species are very difficult to identify: calls
UPSTANDING CREST
Several larks have a vestigial
crest, but two, the very similar
Crested and Thekla larks, have
obvious, triangular crests that
can be held erect. This Crested
Lark shows the sharp point well.
264
LARKS
pale-centred
cheeks
dark under dark stripes
tail on back
wide
white whitish band along
sides to trailing edge
blackish
tail
buff
IN FLIGHT breast
closely streaked,
pale to warm white belly
tan-brown above
FLIGHT: variable, wings usually stiff, straight rear long
edge, angled front; erratic bursts of wingbeats and hind
claw
swooping glides with wings closed.
Length 18 –19cm (7–71⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 30 – 36cm (12 –14in) Weight 33 – 45g (13⁄ 16 – 15⁄ 8 oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Vulnerable
265
LARKS
blurred dark
plain pale streaks on
pale, dull upperwings
rump breast
blackish
tail with
grey centre, whitish
orange sides underparts
IN FLIGHT
Length 17–19cm (61⁄ 2 –71⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 30 – 35cm (12 –14in) Weight 30 – 35g (11⁄ 16 –11⁄ 4 oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Declining†
266
LARKS
rufous
rump IN FLIGHT sharp,
blackish tail with thick dark
pink-brown centre streaks on
crest laid and rusty sides whitish
flat breast
white belly
Length 15 –17cm (6 – 61⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 30 – 35cm (12 –14in) Weight 30g (11⁄ 16 oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Vulnerable
267
LARKS
whitish belly
IN FLIGHT
ADULT
ADULT
Length 15cm (6in) Wingspan 27– 30cm (101⁄ 2 –12in) Weight 24 – 36g (7⁄ 8 –15⁄ 16 oz)
Social Winter flocks Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Vulnerable
268
LARKS
eye-ring
pale stripe
over eye dark patch at
dark tail with base of neck
pale centre and
whitish sides
dull whitish
IN FLIGHT underside
ADULT
Length 14 –16cm (51⁄ 2 – 61⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 30cm (12in) Weight 25g (7⁄ 8 oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Vulnerable
269
LARKS
large,
white underparts
with fine streaks
on chest
IN FLIGHT
Length 17– 20cm (61⁄ 2 – 8in) Wingspan 35 – 40cm (14 –16in) Weight 45 – 50g (15⁄ 8 –13⁄ 4 oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Declining†
270
LARKS
Shorelark primrose-
pale yellow face
and throat (juvenile
black pattern on
head duller than
in summer
ADULT
ADULT (SUMMER)
(WINTER)
variable brown
lower chest-
IN FLIGHT
band
white underparts
A n odd distribution
sees the Shorelark
as a breeding bird in
upland Scandinavia and
mountains of southeast Europe ADULT
(WINTER)
and North Africa; in between, principally
around the North and Baltic Seas, it is a winter bird.As such, it
prefers sandy shores and beaches with strandlines and quiet little
wet and marshy spots where the receding tide leaves little pools FLIGHT: swift, swooping, undulating, with
and patches of shrubby vegetation. It may mix with Snow frequent wing closures; often circles around low over
Buntings in such places. Before leaving in spring, ground before landing.
groups of Shorelarks may develop full summer colours
as the dull feather edges of winter wear away, creating
a pattern quite unlike other European larks. Breeding
birds in the Balkans are greyer, less brown, on the back
than northern birds.
VOICE Pipit-like, thin tseeeep or louder seep-seep;
prolonged repetition of quiet warbling song from
perch or in flight.
NESTING Hair-lined grass cup, on ground; 4 eggs;
1 or 2 broods; May–July. HANDSOME LARK
FEEDING Creeps about unobtrusively on ground, Inconspicuous as it feeds on the ground, the Shorelark is nevertheless
taking seeds, insects, crustaceans, and tiny molluscs. an attractive bird close up.
Length 14 –17cm (51⁄ 2 – 61⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 30 – 35cm (12 –14in) Weight 35 – 45g (11⁄ 4 –15⁄ 8 oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure†
271
MARTINS AND SWALLOWS
Family Hirundinidae
MARTINS
Martins are stockier than most swallows and
lack the very long outer tail feathers that are so SUN-BATHING
prominent on their close relatives. They have House Martins take advantage of a rooftop in warm autumn sunlight.
rather broad-based wings that taper to a point Their white rumps are fluffed out and obvious.
and deeply forked tails on a barrel-shaped body.
House Martins make obvious mud-pellet nests larger prey, with a more fluent, swooping flight.
on buildings while Sand Martins tunnel into All have elongated outer tail feathers, which are
sand cliffs in sizeable colonies. longest on the oldest and fittest males. Red-
rumped Swallows make mud-pellet nests like
SWALLOWS House Martins, but with an entrance “porch”,
The most elegant of the group, the swallows tend while Swallows nest inside small buildings in
to feed lower down than the martins, and on a more concealed position.
In late summer and autumn, flocks of swallows
and martins gather together, often using reed-
beds as roosts, before migrating to Africa. House
Martins seem to remain at great heights while
in Africa and are little observed. Swallows from
Europe occupy different parts of southern Africa
during their stay there.
WIRE BIRDS
An important social trait of
swallows is their habit of gathering
on wires before migrating south.
272
MARTINS AND SWALLOWS
Sand Martin
often perches on earth all-brown
brown bank or at entrance upperparts
upperwings to nest-hole
brown
breast-band
upright
posture while
perching on
twigs or wires
ADULT ADULT
IN FLIGHT
white underparts
brown wings
(juvenile has pale
feather edges on
wings)
Length 12cm (4 3⁄ 4 in) Wingspan 26 – 29cm (10 –111⁄ 2 in) Weight 13 –14g (7⁄ 16 –1⁄ 2 oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Declining
273
MARTINS AND SWALLOWS
O f the European
martins, this is the largest
and the most uniform in colour, and the
finest flier. It soars and floats confidently near cliffs, using
the upcurrents expertly, often sweeping backwards and forwards
across the cliff face like the end of a pendulum, neatly tilting over FLIGHT: smooth, elegant, to and fro across face of
and turning at the end of each traverse. It is often accompanied by cliff, around high peaks, or over water; agile, gliding
smaller, less accomplished House Martins during these flights. with few quick wingbeats, fast turns.
VOICE Short, high, metallic clicking notes, dry tshirr;
TAIL SPOTS
fast, twittering song. The white spots on the tail of the
NESTING Mud nest under overhang of cliff or building Crag Martin are diagnostic but
or in cave; 4 or 5 eggs; 1 or 2 broods;April–June. sometimes difficult to see.
FEEDING Aerial, catching flying insects and drifting
spiders in air.
MUD GATHERER
Close views are often possible as
Crag Martins almost ignore people
as they gather at a puddle to
collect mud for their nests. OCCURRENCE
All year in S Europe, breeding in
SIMILAR SPECIES Spain, Portugal, Alps, Italy, and
Balkans. Typically in mountainous
SAND MARTIN HOUSE MARTIN areas or lowlands with gorges and
see p.273 stiff wings white rump;
see p.277 broad, stony riverbeds; also in
older parts of towns around
much smaller
Mediterranean, using buildings
much as cliffs; often at great altitude
whiter below bigger around peaks.
Length 14 –15cm (51⁄ 2 – 6in) Wingspan 32cm (121⁄ 2 in) Weight 20 – 25g (11⁄ 16 – 7⁄ 8 oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure
274
MARTINS AND SWALLOWS
broad
blue-black
ADULT chest-band
whitish to deep
peach-buff
underparts
IN FLIGHT
feed higher up, almost as high as the Swifts. It hunts around field edges,
over village greens, cricket pitches, and open spaces, taking bigger
insect food than the aerial feeders of higher levels. It also relies FLIGHT: wings swept back, broad-based, tapered,
nowadays on access to buildings of some sort in which to nest. flicked in shallow backward wingbeats; fluent and
VOICE Calls distinctively liquid swit-swit-swit, nasal vit-vit-vit, graceful with much swerving, rolling from side to side.
tsee-tsee; song quick,
AGILE FLIGHT
chirruping, twittering Swallows dive from the nest to
warble with characteristic dash out through an open door
trills. or window.
NESTING Open-topped
cup of mud and straw, on
beam or ledge in
outbuilding, shed, or barn;
4–6 eggs; 2 or 3 broods;
April–August.
AUTUMN FLOCKS
FEEDING Flies low, Before migrating in autumn,
swerving to catch flying Swallows and House Martins
insects in its mouth, gather in substantial, twittering
mostly large flies. flocks on overhead wires.
OCCURRENCE
SIMILAR SPECIES In summer, throughout Europe
except Iceland. Often near water,
RED-RUMPED SWALLOW especially in spring and autumn,
pale rump; see p.276 all-dark feeding over grassy or cultivated
pale river valleys, open space, or rich
chin farmland with hedgerows; nests in
black
under tail and around farms and villages but
SWIFT not often in suburbia.
never on thin
much smaller
HOUSE MARTIN open perch; wings Seen in the UK
white rump; see p.277 see p.249 J F M A M J J A S O N D
Length 17–19cm (61⁄ 2 –71⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 32 – 35cm (121⁄ 2 –14in) Weight 16 – 25g (9⁄ 16 – 7⁄ 8 oz)
Social Migrant flocks Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Declining
275
MARTINS AND SWALLOWS
Red-rumped Swallow
rufous collar ADULT
thick tail
dull orange- streamers
buff rump
blackish rufous sides of head
tail looks ADULT dark blue
and nape patch cap
stuck-on
dark blue back
(duller on
IN FLIGHT juvenile)
ADULT
blackish tail
without pale
white spots black under tail throat
Length 14 –19cm (51⁄ 2 –71⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 30 – 35cm (12 –14in) Weight 20g (11⁄ 16 oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure
276
MARTINS AND SWALLOWS
House Martin
dark underwings
brown-black ADULT
wings nest exposed
dark forked tail on outside
with no wall
streamers ADULTS (AT NEST)
blue-black
white rump (darker cap
on juvenile) blue-black
back
IN FLIGHT
white
throat
Length 12cm (43⁄ 4 in) Wingspan 26 – 29cm (10 –111⁄ 2 in) Weight 15 – 21g (9⁄ 16 – 3⁄ 4 oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure
277
PIPITS AND WAGTAILS
Family Motacillidae
PIPITS
Streaky brown is the typical description of a GREY OR YELLOW?
pipit: species can be hard to tell apart. Calls help, Although called the Grey Wagtail, this bird confuses many people with
as does the time of year, habitat, and location. its yellow coloration.
Similar species pairs may have different lifestyles,
such as Meadow Pipits (moorland in summer, which breeds beside fast-flowing streams, is
lowlands in winter) and Tree Pipits (woodland a regular bird on urban rooftops in winter.
edge in summer,Africa in winter). There is little Male and female plumages are often different
plumage variation between sexes and seasons. and winter plumages are duller than summer
ones; juveniles are also recognizably different.
WAGTAILS Some species are resident in Europe, others
More boldly patterned or more colourful than migrate to Africa for the winter.
pipits, the wagtails are often associated with water
or wet meadowland. Pied and White Wagtails,
however, are more likely than almost any other
bird to be seen on tarmac or concrete in
urban areas and even the Grey Wagtail,
LONG CLAW
Meadow and Tree Pipits are closely similar,
but the Meadow Pipit has a long hind claw,
at least as long as the toe, as seen here: on
a Tree Pipit it is shorter.
278
PIPITS AND WAGTAILS
brown back
sparsely quite
streaked long, spike-
pale back dark spots on like, pale-
wing coverts based bill
Length 15 –18cm (6 –7in) Wingspan 28 – 30cm (11–12in) Weight 35g (11⁄ 4 oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Vulnerable
279
PIPITS AND WAGTAILS
IN FLIGHT
white
underparts
dark brown to
blackish legs
SUMMER
WINTER
Length 17cm (61⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 23 – 28cm (9 –11in) Weight 20 – 36g (11⁄ 16 –15⁄ 16 oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Vulnerable
280
PIPITS AND WAGTAILS
Rock Pipit
weak pale stripe
over eye
dark back pale eye-ring
dull underside
WINTER
dark legs
IN FLIGHT
grey-brown
streaks on
yellowish to dull
FLIGHT: fairly strong; bursts of wingbeats between white underside
glides.
O ne of the smaller
pipits, this is a
stocky, relatively
heavily built, and quite
dark bird, with distinctive dark legs. It
is a coastal rather than a cliff bird, breeding
in rocky places by the sea and feeding along
shorelines of all kinds. In summer, it is mostly seen
around cliffs and rocky islands, but in winter it moves SUMMER
out to open sand and shingle beaches and even the deeply
incised muddy creeks of big salt marshes. Its song-flight and song dark brown to
blackish legs
are very similar to those of the Meadow Pipit.
VOICE Call rather full, more slurred than
Meadow, feest or pseeep, usually singly; song
richer, stronger trill in similar song-flight.
NESTING Hair-lined nest on ground, in
cavity in rocks; 4 or 5 eggs; 1 or 2 broods;
April–July.
FEEDING Forages on grass and rocks
above cliffs in summer, more often on
weedy and stony beaches in winter; picks IDENTICAL IN WINTER
up insects, sandhoppers, small periwinkles, The Scandinavian subspecies looks exactly like the
and similar creatures. Rock Pipit in winter but turns up inland more often.
OCCURRENCE
SIMILAR SPECIES SUBSPECIES Breeds on all rocky coasts of
Scandinavia, Shetlands, N and W
WATER PIPIT summer; MEADOW PIPIT L. a.littoralis Great Britain, Ireland, and NW
see p.280 see p.282 (Scandinavia)
France. Winters widely on softer
paler, more spring
buff coasts and is common around salt-
greyer
stronger back marsh creeks and muddy inlets, in
whitish pale S to W Spain, with Scandinavian
plainer wingbars less
legs birds moving south.
below streaked
Seen in the UK
J F M A M J J A S O N D
Length 16.5cm (61⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 23 – 28cm (9 –11in) Weight 20 – 30g (11⁄ 16 –11⁄ 16 oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure
281
PIPITS AND WAGTAILS
olive-buff or creamy
IN FLIGHT
underside (yellower
on juvenile)
Length 14.5cm (53⁄ 4 in) Wingspan 22 – 25cm (9 –10in) Weight 16 – 25g (9⁄ 16 – 7⁄ 8 oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure
282
PIPITS AND WAGTAILS
plain, pale
yellowish
ADULT (AUTUMN) flanks
IN FLIGHT
buff-yellow
underside
Length 15cm (6in) Wingspan 25 – 27cm (10 –101⁄ 2 in) Weight 20 – 25g (11⁄ 16 – 7⁄ 8 oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure
283
PIPITS AND WAGTAILS
pinkish to brick-red
face, throat, and
upper breast
short,
white-
edged tail
blackish brown yellow
and cream stripes base to
on back bill
IMMATURE (1ST WINTER)
IN FLIGHT
duller face than
short-tailed, in summer
stocky shape even, broad black
stripes on white
underparts
I n summer, this is a pipit of the far north; in spring it may be found FLIGHT: stronger than Meadow Pipit, less hesitant,
in damp, grassy places and around pools and salt pans in southeast
Europe. It is a regular but rare autumn migrant in west
more direct like Tree Pipit.
Length 14 –15cm (51⁄ 2 – 6in) Wingspan 22 – 25cm (9 –10in) Weight 16 – 25g (9⁄ 16 – 7⁄ 8 oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure†
284
PIPITS AND WAGTAILS
MALE
(SUMMER) sooty
flanks
FEMALE
(PIED)
white belly
IN FLIGHT
MALE
JUVENILE
(SUMMER; PIED)
Length 18cm (7in) Wingspan 25 – 30cm (10 –12in) Weight 19 – 27g (11⁄ 16 – 7⁄ 8 oz)
Social Winter flocks Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure
285
PIPITS AND WAGTAILS
MALE
(SPRING)
green
back
JUVENILE (AUTUMN)
bright yellow
pale line
underparts
over eye
IN FLIGHT
grey-green
back
MALE
(SPRING)
white sides
to black tail
FEMALE
(SPRING)
long,
spindly
black legs
E legant and colourful, the Yellow Wagtail, particularly the summer FLIGHT: strong but undulating, with long,
male, is a highly distinctive bird. However, autumn birds,
especially juveniles, cause confusion with rarer
sweeping bounds; flurries of quick wingbeats.
FEEDING
species and also juvenile Pied Wagtails, which can The Yellow Wagtail is usually found
appear strongly yellowish.The call always helps to around livestock in damp fields
identify it. In summer, it lives around pools and and pastures: it eats insects
reservoirs and damp, grassy fields where horses dislodged from the grass by the
and cattle disturb the insects it eats. In winter, it is grazing cattle and horses.
found near big mammal herds on African plains.
VOICE Call distinctive, loud, full, flat, or rising
tsli, or tsweep or tswi-eep; song repetition of brief,
chirping phrases.
NESTING Grassy cup in vegetation on ground;
SUBSPECIES
5 or 6 eggs; 2 broods; May–July.
FEEDING Forages on ground, skipping and leaping M. f. flava long white
stripe over
after flies in short flycatching sallies; eats insects and (C Europe) eye
other invertebrates. blue-grey crown
and cheeks
SIMILAR SPECIES OCCURRENCE
Widespread in summer, breeding
longer tail greyer throughout Europe except for
back
Ireland and Iceland. Often near
longer
glossy black water, in wet fields and pastures
tail
shorter, crown and cheeks with livestock. Migrant flocks
pale legs often on muddy reservoir edges
M. f. feldegg
or adjacent grass.
(SE Europe)
GREY WAGTAIL 32; PIED WAGTAIL juvenile, Seen in the UK
see p.287 similar to juvenile; see p.285 J F M A M J J A S O N D
Length 17cm (61⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 23 – 27cm (9 –101⁄ 2 in) Weight 16 – 22g (9⁄ 16 –13⁄ 16 oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure
286
PIPITS AND WAGTAILS
buffish
below
long, broad
white stripe yellow
along wings under mid-grey upperparts, white stripe
long tail from cap to back over eye
MALE (SUMMER)
IN FLIGHT JUVENILE
black chin
(pale in
winter)
Length 18 –19cm (7–71⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 25 – 27cm (10 –101⁄ 2 in) Weight 15 – 23g (9⁄ 16 – 13⁄ 16 oz)
Social Family groups Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure†
287
WRENS, DIPPERS, WAXWINGS, AND ACCENTORS
WRENS, DIPPERS,
WAXWINGS, AND ACCENTORS
T HIS GROUP – ANOTHER convenient
grouping rather than a collection of near
relatives – includes families that are widespread
in the northern hemisphere and one family
(accentors) that is absent from the New World.
WRENS
Primarily an American family, with just one
species in Europe, the wrens are small, brown,
barred birds with loud voices and an “irritable” WINTER FLOCK
character. The Wren, whose scientific name Waxwings take a breather after drinking, before returning to gorge
means “cave dweller”, is likely to be found in themselves once more on a crop of berries.
dark, damp, cobweb-filled places under hedges
and around sheds, searching for insects. WAXWINGS
Upright, crested, short-legged, eye-catching birds,
DIPPERS Waxwings are sociable and often very tame.
Superficially wren-like but larger, the Dipper Their numbers in western Europe vary greatly
swims, wades, and walks underwater. It is always from year to year.
at the water’s edge, even flying along a twisting
water course rather than across dry land. ACCENTORS
Small, slim-billed, shuffling ground birds, accentors
ROCK HOPPER are often overlooked. The Dunnock,
A Dipper stands
beside a rushing
however, is common in many
torrent, into which habitats and a frequent
it is likely to plunge. garden songster that
deserves to be a more
popular favourite.
ABUNDANT
Dunnocks are among north-
west Europe's most
common birds, with a wide
choice of habitat types.
VIBRANT SONG
A Wren shakes with the effort as
it pours out a remarkable song,
part of the woodland chorus.
288
WRENS, DIPPERS, WAXWINGS, AND ACCENTORS
over eye
dark barring
on back pale brown
and wings tiny, rounded, back
cocked tail
fine,
long
bill
softly barred
flanks
strong pale
FLIGHT: low, fast, short, with bursts of quick feet
wingbeats; dives quickly into cover.
Length 9 –10cm (31⁄ 2 – 4in) Wingspan 13 –17cm (5 – 61⁄ 2 in) Weight 8 –13g (5⁄ 16 – 7⁄ 16 oz)
Social Roosts in flocks Lifespan 2 – 5 years Status Secure
289
WRENS, DIPPERS, WAXWINGS, AND ACCENTORS
blackish from
thickset back to tail
shape
stout dark
bill
ADULT
IN FLIGHT
pale feather edges bold white
chest
chestnut band
on belly
greyer
body thick black legs
with large feet
JUVENILE
Length 18cm (7in) Wingspan 25 – 30cm (10 –12in) Weight 55 –75g (2– 25⁄ 8 oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure†
290
WRENS, DIPPERS, WAXWINGS, AND ACCENTORS
IN FLIGHT
MALE
thinner
yellow yellow tip
stripe blurred
bib
waxy red spots
on wings
populations, but a poor autumn berry crop will force the Waxwings
to move far to the south and west of their usual range in search of
food.Although flocks in flight might superficially suggest Starlings, FLIGHT: direct, swooping or swerving, with long,
identification is very easy; the birds’ tameness helps as they feed in shallow undulations, quick wingbeats; flocks keep
urban areas or gardens. formation like waders.
VOICE Silvery, high, metallic trill on even pitch, trrreee or siirrrrr.
NESTING Moss-lined nest of twigs in birch or conifer; 4–6 eggs;
1 brood; May–June.
FEEDING Eats insects in
summer; in winter some
insects, often caught in
flight, but mostly large
berries such as rowan, haw-
thorn, and cotoneaster; also
eats apples and other fruit.
OCCURRENCE
SIMILAR SPECIES Breeds in conifer forest in extreme
NE Europe. In winter, frequent in
sharper N Scandinavia, irregular in
dark bill
S Scandinavia and E Europe.
rump
Numbers are erratic, sometimes
large, in W Europe, big flocks
coinciding with high population
and lack of food in N Europe.
STARLING 32; RESTING FLOCK
similar in flight; Seen in the UK
Waxwings feed greedily, stripping shrub of berries, and drink a great
see p.372 J F M A M J J A S O N D
deal. Between bouts of feeding, flocks rest in undisturbed trees nearby.
Length 18cm (7in) Wingspan 32 – 35cm (121⁄ 2 –14in) Weight 45 –70g (15⁄ 8 – 21⁄ 2 oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure†
291
WRENS, DIPPERS, WAXWINGS, AND ACCENTORS
Dunnock streaked
brown cap
brown eye
fine dark
bill
black streaks on
rich brown back black and brown
and wings streaks on back
grey
brown cheeks throat
mid-grey
breast
soft, warm
brown streaks
on flanks
IN FLIGHT
orange-
brown
T he generally quite dull and unobtrusive
looks of the Dunnock bely its unusual
mating habits: it forms one-male-two-female or
legs
Length 14cm (51⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 19 – 21cm (71⁄ 2 – 81⁄ 2 in) Weight 19 – 24g (11⁄ 16 – 7⁄ 8 oz)
Social Family groups Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure
292
WRENS, DIPPERS, WAXWINGS, AND ACCENTORS
Alpine Accentor
dark midwing panel,
edged with white spots grey head yellow-
based
dark bill
dark streaks
on pale grey-
brown back
dark band on
short, closed wings
rounded
wings
streaked,
IN FLIGHT
dull buffish
or grey
dark tail underside
broad red-brown
streaks on flanks
W here it is moderately
common, the Alpine
Accentor can be found by
searching high mountain slopes
with mixed pastures and rock, or in
almost entirely rocky places at high altitude.
In areas where it is more thinly spread, locating
it can be quite difficult. In winter, accentors move to lower levels
and turn up quite regularly at traditional sites outside the breeding
range, usually hilltops, but also centred on old buildings such as castle FLIGHT: quite strong, lark- or thrush-like with
complexes on rocky outcrops.They can be quite tame in winter, but flurries of wingbeats, quick swoops.
are often shy and elusive in summer in the mountains. In shape and
behaviour, they resemble large Dunnocks.
VOICE Short, trilling or rolling calls, trru, tschirr, drrp; song erratic,
uneven series of trills and squeaky notes, sometimes in flight.
NESTING Grassy nest in
rock crevice or under
rocks; 3–5 eggs; 2 broods;
May–August.
FEEDING Forages on
ground, finding insects,
spiders, and seeds. OCCURRENCE
Breeds at high altitude mostly in
SIMILAR SPECIES Pyrenees and Alps, and locally in
Italy and Balkans, usually on wide
DUNNOCK open slopes with short grass and
greyer
on breast; plenty of boulders, or almost
see p.292 wholly rocky places. Sparse at
plainer lower altitude in winter, a few
wings moving outside breeding range to
Mediterranean islands.
less CHARACTERISTIC MARKING
reddish Seen in the UK
flanks This Alpine Accentor on rocky ground reveals the obvious dark wing
J F M A M J J A S O N D
panel that is usually the most distinctive feature at a distance.
Length 15 –17cm (6 – 61⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 22cm (9in) Weight 25g (7⁄ 8 oz)
Social Family groups Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure
293
CHATS AND THRUSHES
Family Turdidae
SONG THRUSH
Several of the thrushes are excellent songsters,
none more so than the Song Thrush whose
repetitive phrases include many strong, clear,
musical notes.
WINTER FEATHERS
The whitish edges on the feathers of this
Rock Thrush will wear off by summer, to
give a clear blue and orange appearance,
quite unlike any other European species.
294
CHATS AND THRUSHES
ADULT
olive-buff JUVENILE
IN FLIGHT underside
pale orange-red to
washed-out orange
spindly face and breast
brown legs
ADULT (SPRING)
it follows gardeners turning the soil, and has become remarkably FLIGHT: short, flitting darts into cover; longer
tame. In most of continental Europe, Robins are much shyer birds. flights weak, flitting, with bursts of wingbeats.
Robins are easily identified (although juveniles have
IN A DIFFERENT LIGHT
no red at first) and have a distinctive song. In some lights, the white breast
VOICE Sharp, short, abrupt tik, series of quick tik-ik- spot below the red bib may be
ik-ik-ik, high, thin seeep; song rich, full, varied very obvious.
warbling in long, musical series, some phrases like
Garden Warbler’s (see p.314); in autumn/winter more
mellow, melancholy.
NESTING Domed nest of leaves and grass in bank,
dense bush or hedge, or thick ivy; 4–6 eggs; 2 broods;
April–August.
FEEDING Mostly on ground, hopping and flitting
in search of spiders, insects, worms, berries, and seeds;
comes to feeders and bird-tables for seed mixtures.
Length 14cm (51⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 20 – 22cm (8 – 9in) Weight 16 – 22g (9⁄ 16 – 13⁄ 16 oz)
Social Family groups Lifespan 3 – 5 years Status Secure
295
CHATS AND THRUSHES
Nightingale spotted
above
rufous
tail
rufous plain brown pale ring around
tail wings large dark eye
ADULT
warm
IN FLIGHT brown back
grey on side JUVENILE
of neck
clean grey-buff
underside
ADULT
W ith one of
the finest songs
in Europe, the Nightingale is
strong
pinkish legs
MALE
easy to find when singing but otherwise difficult to locate and (SINGING)
usually hard to see well. It skulks in thick vegetation, often close
to the ground, although with a little patience a clear view can
sometimes be obtained. In places, it sings much more openly, but FLIGHT: low, short, flitting, with wings and tail
is likely to drop out of sight immediately if approached too fanned briefly as it dives into cover.
closely.Although quite plain in appearance, its
identification is usually straightforward.
VOICE Calls include low, mechanical, grating kerrr,
loud, bright hweet; song brilliant but unstructured, very
varied, some phrases extremely fast with sudden
change from high to low pitch; long, slow, plaintive
notes build to sudden throaty trill.
NESTING Cup of grass and leaves in dense bushy
cover close to ground; 4 or 5 eggs; 1 brood; May–June. POWERFUL SONG
FEEDING Forages in clear spaces under dense, dark Males sing more consistently at
cover, in ditches, and under thickets for worms, larvae, dawn and dusk, and bursts of OCCURRENCE
beetles, and berries. song are often intermittent by day. In Europe from April to August;
common in S Europe, scarce in
SIMILAR SPECIES NW as far as England and
Germany. Breeds in many kinds of
THRUSH NIGHTINGALE ROBIN juvenile, GARDEN WARBLER thickets that are dense to ground
see p.439 similar to juvenile; see p.314
see p.295 duller level, from bushy gullies and
mottled overgrown gardens to woodland
on chest smaller with bushy (especially coppiced)
undergrowth and clumps of dense
smaller bushes on heaths.
Seen in the UK
duller
J F M A M J J A S O N D
Length 16 –17cm (61⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 23 – 26cm (9 –10in) Weight 18 – 27g (5⁄ 8 –15⁄ 16 oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure†
296
CHATS AND THRUSHES
Bluethroat red on
tail
rufous
patch on MALE
blue
each side throat
of tail JUVENILE
pale stripe
IN FLIGHT
over eye
dark breast-
band may
MALE (SUMMER; be spotted
RED-SPOTTED FORM) blue
Length 14cm (51⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 20 – 22cm (8 – 9in) Weight 15 – 23g (9⁄ 16 – 13⁄ 16 oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure
297
CHATS AND THRUSHES
whitish feather
black face
tips obscuring
and throat
most of dark
face
dark MALE
slim body
centre on (SPRING)
pale rust-
red tail plain
head
IN FLIGHT
rich orange-
MALE (AUTUMN) rufous
underside
slim black
pale buff underside legs
rust-red
rusty tail rump
FEMALE
Length 14cm (51⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 20 – 24cm (8 – 91⁄ 2 in) Weight 12 – 20g (7⁄ 16 –11⁄ 16 oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Vulnerable
298
CHATS AND THRUSHES
browner head
than male sooty grey
upperparts
sooty or mousy
grey body
dark MALE
rust-red tail white panel
with darker on wings
centre
pale
eye-ring
IN FLIGHT
pale grey
rust-red above body
and on sides
of tail
IMMATURE (WINTER)
and rough or waste ground where it can feed. It may move into
industrial sites and run-down areas of larger cities. In winter, a few FLIGHT: quick, agile, darting through small spaces,
use quarries and rocky coves along the coast, but most prefer rough dashing across roofs, with bursts of flicking wingbeats.
ground, from new building sites to derelict
land with brick and concrete rubble.
VOICE Call hard, rattling or creaky notes,
short tsip, tucc-tucc, titititic; song hesitant warble
with strange stone-shaking trills and rattles,
carries far in town or on cliff where elusive.
NESTING Grassy nest in hole in building,
on ledge, in cavity in cliff or fallen rocks;
4–6 eggs; 2 broods; May–July.
FEEDING Leaps and flies after insects, drops to IMMATURE MALE
ground from high perch or boulder to pick up Males often sing and sometimes breed while
beetles, grubs, worms, some berries, and seeds. still in immature grey plumage. OCCURRENCE
Breeds in most of Europe except
SIMILAR SPECIES Iceland, N Great Britain (very rare
in S), and N Scandinavia, in towns
REDSTART 2 BLACK WHEATEAR 32; DUNNOCK and villages with old buildings,
similar to 32; see p.302 see p.292
see p.298 cities and derelict industrial areas,
larger and streaked cliffs, gorges, mountain areas, and
paler blacker no red often in old quarries along coast.
on tail In winter, often in quarries or
huge
white blacker along rocky coast.
more
rump
rufous Seen in the UK
on rump and vent
J F M A M J J A S O N D
Length 14.5cm (53⁄ 4 in) Wingspan 23 – 26cm (9 –10in) Weight 14 – 20g (1⁄ 2 –11⁄ 16 oz)
Social Family groups Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure
299
CHATS AND THRUSHES
bright buff
MALE JUVENILE
below
(SPRING)
blackish
wings small, diffuse
eye patch rich buff
or pale buff
underside,
pale sandy fades white
grey back
white tail
base
FEMALE
(SPRING) black legs
browner
wings
Length 14.5 –15.5cm (53⁄ 4 – 6in) Wingspan 26 – 32cm (10 –121⁄ 2 in) Weight 17– 30g (5⁄ 8 –11⁄ 16 oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure
300
CHATS AND THRUSHES
Black-eared Wheatear
mostly white black face
tail with black bold black and throat
centre and eye patch
sides
MALE (SPRING;
PALE-THROATED)
blackish
MALE (SPRING; wings
white, buff, BLACK-THROATED)
or orange-
buff back
IN FLIGHT buff-brown
or yellow-
orange body
ginger bright
breast pale buff
underside
whitish
belly
black sides
IMMATURE of tail
(AUTUMN) FEMALE
S limmer, lighter, and less solid than a Wheatear, the Black-eared Wheatear
occurs in two forms – black-throated and pale-throated – and requires
careful identification in plumages other than the spring male’s, which is
bold and striking. It combines some of the actions
of the smaller chats with the typical behaviour of SLENDER FORM
ground-feeding wheatears.This southern European This is a slim, elegant wheatear,
wheatear is common on warm, stony Mediterranean often perching on bushes, using
its tail to maintain its balance.
slopes, readily perching on low bushes and tall stems.
VOICE Wheezy tssch, hard tack; song fast, rattling
warble, quite bright and explosive, sometimes
with mimicry.
NESTING Grassy cup in hole, under boulders
or stones, or at base of bush; 4 or 5 eggs;
1 or 2 broods;April–June.
FEEDING Watches from bush top or stone, drops
to ground, or chases after insects; eats some
small seeds. OCCURRENCE
REMARK Subspecies Very locally in Spain, Portugal,
SIMILAR SPECIES
O. h. hispanica (SW Europe) and Mediterranean countries,
has less black on face and smaller and in variety of open, often barren
much stockier
throat and yellower back; broader places with scattered bushes,
O. h. melanoleuca (S Italy, black tail rocks, and high stony pastures,
band white only
Balkans) has more black on rump
from March to October. Only
rare vagrant farther north in spring
on face, whiter back, and
or autumn.
longer wingtips. Both
have black- and pale- WHEATEAR 32; STONECHAT 32; Seen in the UK
see p.300 see p.304 J F M A M J J A S O N D
throated forms.
Length 13.5 –15cm (51⁄ 4 – 6in) Wingspan 25 – 30cm (10 –12in) Weight 15 – 25g (9⁄ 16 – 7⁄ 8 oz)
Social Family groups Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Vulnerable
301
CHATS AND THRUSHES
Black Wheatear
wings look paler
in flight
black body stout
black
bill
ADULT
body duller and
black browner than
“T”-shaped male’s
mark on
white tail
IN FLIGHT
FEMALE
strong blackish
legs
white
vent
FLIGHT: quite strong, often low; fast up and down
slopes or across cliff faces. mostly white
tail
Length 16 –18cm (61⁄ 2 –7in) Wingspan 30 – 35cm (12 –14in) Weight 25 – 35g (7⁄ 8 –11⁄ 4 oz)
Social Family groups Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Endangered
302
CHATS AND THRUSHES
IN FLIGHT MALE
(SPRING) MALE
buff stripe (AUTUMN)
over eye buff stripe
over eye
streaked
cap and
cheeks
yellow-buff
underside
Length 12.5cm (5in) Wingspan 21– 24cm (81⁄ 2 – 91⁄ 2 in) Weight 16 – 24g (9⁄ 16 – 7⁄ 8 oz)
Social Family groups Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure
303
CHATS AND THRUSHES
white patch on
large white paler throat sides of neck
wing patch and head
black streaks on brown
back (back duller
in winter)
MALE
(SUMMER) stocky shape
pale
rump
IN FLIGHT
rust-red
FEMALE breast
paler belly
pale throat short blackish
tail
mottled chest
slim black
legs
JUVENILE
thickets above coastal cliffs are perfect for it; in winter, it may move
to the coast to escape hard weather, and inland breeding populations
may temporarily disappear after bad winters. Migrant Siberian FLIGHT: low, quick, direct, whirring, onto
Stonechats are more like pale Whinchats in some respects but prominent perch.
resident Stonechats are usually easily identified.
VOICE Hard, scolding tsak or tsak-tsak, sharp wheet, SUBSPECIES
often wheet-tak-tak; song sometimes in flight, rapid, S. t. maura
chattery warble with some chattering and grating (Siberia); clear
notes, less musical than Whinchat’s. rufous rump
NESTING Grassy cup, lined with hair and feathers, pale line
often in dense grass with entrance tunnel; 5 or 6 eggs; over eye
2 broods; May–July.
FEEDING Drops to ground to pick up insects,
spiders, worms, and some seeds; catches some insects
white feather fringes
in flight, returning to eat them on a perch.
Length 12.5cm (5in) Wingspan 18 – 21cm (7– 81⁄ 2 in) Weight 14 –17g (1⁄ 2 – 5⁄ 8 oz)
Social Family groups Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Declining†
304
CHATS AND THRUSHES
quite short,
stout legs
dark brown tail
with no trace FEMALE
IN FLIGHT
of rufous
MALE
JUVENILE
Length 21– 23cm (81⁄ 2 – 9in) Wingspan 35 – 40cm (14 –16in) Weight 60 – 80g (21⁄ 8 – 27⁄ 8 oz)
Social Family groups Lifespan 5 –10 years Status Vulnerable†
305
CHATS AND THRUSHES
IN FLIGHT
white bars
wear off in
summer
JUVENILE
strong dark
legs
FLIGHT: strong, direct, quick, with bursts of
wingbeats; fluttery song-flight.
MALE
(SPRING)
A small thrush with a short tail and stocky body, the
Rock Thrush is characteristic of high alpine
pastures, rocky slopes, and small upland fields with
stone walls. It perches on boulders, poles, overhead
wires, and other prominent places and so may be
relatively easy to see. Its song-flight also catches the
eye, although finding a small bird in a habitat that is
generally so open and expansive can be difficult.
Identifying it is usually simple enough: males
especially are quite striking.
VOICE Squeaky whit and hard chak; song fluty, soft,
Blackbird-like rich, musical warble, descending, often
in song-flight.
NESTING Grassy cup in hole in wall or cavity among
rocks or scree; 4 or 5 eggs; 1 brood; May–June.
FEEDING Looks for food from high perch, dropping SUMMER COLOURS
down onto insects, small reptiles, and worms; also eats Fresh feathers have whitish tips, but by mid-summer, these wear off to
berries and seeds. create a more uniform appearance.
Length 17– 20cm (61⁄ 2 – 8in) Wingspan 30 – 35cm (12 –14in) Weight 50 –70g (13⁄ 4 – 21⁄ 2 oz)
Social Family groups Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Declining†
306
CHATS AND THRUSHES
IN FLIGHT
“V”-shaped,
brown-black
spots on
underside
SINGING
yellow-buff
underparts, pale pinkish
browner on flanks, legs
white on belly
FLIGHT: usually low into nearest cover; higher flight
erratic, with swooping glides; bursts of wingbeats.
Length 23cm (9in) Wingspan 33 – 36cm (13 –14in) Weight 70 – 90g (21⁄ 2 – 31⁄ 4 oz)
Social Family groups Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure
307
CHATS AND THRUSHES
pale stripe
reddish over eye
underwing
white spot coverts
beside tail dark
cheeks
dark brown
back
IN FLIGHT
long,
FLIGHT: quite quick; in flocks sometimes high, narrow dark
slightly erratic, undulating a little, with spots on
breast
in-out flicks of wings; disturbed flocks
move to hedge or tree.
silvery white
dull rust-red underside
flanks
O ften heard calling
during its nocturnal
migrations, especially during clear,
calm nights in October, the Redwing
is a small, social thrush, easily identified by
its well-marked head pattern. It moves about
in flocks, often mixed with Fieldfares, and, in
winter, feeds in loose congregations in fields or in
closer groups, feeding on berries in hedgerows. It is
not generally a garden bird but will come to larger
gardens for food during hard weather, to which it
is particularly susceptible. Breeding pairs form small,
scattered groups.
VOICE Flight call, often at night, high, thin, simple
seeeeh, also chuk, chittuk; song variable, monotonous
repetition of short phrases and chuckling notes with
rising or falling pattern.
NESTING Cup of grass and twigs, in low bush or
shrub; 4–6 eggs; 2 broods;April–July.
FEEDING Often on ground, in winter in loose
flocks advancing across field, finding worms, insects, BERRY EATERS
and seeds; also in hedges, feeding on berries; in hard Hedgerow berry crops are quickly exhausted by mixed flocks of
weather, visits gardens for apples and berries. Redwings and Fieldfares descending on them.
Length 21cm (81⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 33 – 35cm (13 –14in) Weight 55 –75g (2 – 25⁄ 8 oz)
Social Winter flocks Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure
308
CHATS AND THRUSHES
JUVENILE
usually found in pairs, but families join up in larger groups during FLIGHT: strong, direct, sometimes undulating with
autumn when berries are abundant. In winter, single Mistle Thrushes long swoops between bursts of wingbeats; often high
often defend berry-laden trees against other birds, maintaining and far-ranging.
a food supply through the colder months.While
PALE THRUSH
Song Thrushes often slip away at low level if Against the dark foliage of a
disturbed, Mistle Thrushes tend to go up to a much conifer, this bird may look very pale.
greater height and fly off over greater distances.
VOICE Loud, slurred, harsh, rattling chatter
tsairrrk-sairr-sairr-sairrk; song loud, wild, fluty, not
very varied, series of short, repetitive phrases.
NESTING Big, loose cup of roots, leaves, twigs, and
grass, often quite exposed high on tree branch;
3–5 eggs; 2 broods; March–June.
FEEDING Bounding hops on ground, searching for
worms, seeds, and invertebrates; eats many berries,
sometimes coming to larger gardens for fruit.
OCCURRENCE
SIMILAR SPECIES Breeds in most of Europe except
extreme N; summer visitor in
SONG THRUSH FIELDFARE BLACKBIRD 2; N and E Europe. In parkland,
see p.307 see p.310 grey see p.311
head farmland with tall trees, orchards,
plainer brown smaller and
on edges of moorland near mature
above smaller back darker
forest, woodland clearings, and
lower scrub, often feeding on
more no bold open grassland and large lawns.
aligned black
tail spots
“V”-spots Seen in the UK
J F M A M J J A S O N D
Length 27cm (101⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 42 – 48cm (161⁄ 2 –19in) Weight 110 –140g (4 – 5oz)
Social Winter flocks Lifespan 5 –10 years Status Secure
309
CHATS AND THRUSHES
ADULT
black
pale tail
grey IN FLIGHT
rump
black-spotted,
pale to deep
orange-buff
breast
grey
rump
ADULT
whiter (SUMMER)
flanks black spots on
ADULT white flanks
(WINTER)
Length 25cm (10in) Wingspan 39 – 42cm (151⁄ 2 –161⁄ 2 in) Weight 80 –130g (27⁄ 8 – 5oz)
Social Winter flocks Lifespan 5 –10 years Status Secure
310
CHATS AND THRUSHES
MALE
IMMATURE MALE
IN FLIGHT (1ST WINTER)
large, all-
dark brown black body
body dark streaks
on throat
variably
raises tail mottled or
dark-spotted
underside
FEMALE
Length 24 – 25cm (91⁄ 2 –10in) Wingspan 34 – 38cm (131⁄ 2 –15in) Weight 80 –110g (27⁄ 8 – 4oz)
Social Family groups Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure
311
CHATS AND THRUSHES
Ring Ouzel
small head black head
pale wings
dull, pale
slender breast-band
shape
brown-black
back
duller than
male
MALE
paler wings
FEMALE
white
IN FLIGHT breast-
band
long black
tail
I n summer, Ring
Ouzels are found in
wild, open country with sooty black
loose rocks, boulders, crags, underside
or drystone walls, more rarely
in deeply eroded peat bogs or on
steep, bracken-covered slopes.They
MALE
appear early in spring and occasionally turn
up, while migrating, on hills inland or on coasts;
in autumn, they are more often found by the sea, particularly
on dunes overgrown with berry bushes.They tend to be rather shy FLIGHT: fast, direct; often over long distance,
and wild, quick to fly off out of sight.They are usually seen with recalling Mistle Thrush but lower; frequently flies off
head up, tail cocked, and wings drooped, or a head and bill may over ridge out of sight.
just be visible above a skyline rock. Ring Ouzels are
declining in areas subject to increased human SUBSPECIES
disturbance on summer weekends.
T. t. alpestris
VOICE Loud, hard, rhythmic tak-tak-tak; various (S Europe)
chattering and chuckling calls; song loud, wild, simple pale wing
repetition of short phrases with musical, fluty quality. panel
NESTING Big, loose cup of grass, twigs, soil, and
leaves, in steep bank, rock cavity, or fallen stone wall;
5 or 6 eggs; 2 broods;April–June. white
FEEDING Feeds on insects, worms, seeds, and berries; “scales”
eats berries in bushes on migration.
Length 23 – 24cm (9 – 91⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 38 – 42cm (15 –161⁄ 2 in) Weight 95 –130g (33⁄ 8 – 5oz)
Social Family groups Lifespan 5 –10 years Status Secure
312
WARBLERS AND ALLIES/FLYCATCHERS
Family Sylviidae
PERSISTENT
SINGERS
Male warblers sing a
lot, especially if they
are unable to find a
DIMORPHISM mate, when they sing
A few species, such as the Blackcap (male pictured), have for weeks on end.
different male and female plumages.
Family Muscicapidae
FLYCATCHERS
BRIGHT
T HERE ARE TWO GROUPS OF flycatchers: one includes
basically brown ones (Spotted, Red-breasted), the
other, birds in which the summer male is black and
CHARACTER
Although dull in white (the “pied” group). They are short-billed, upright,
plumage, the long-winged, short-tailed birds. Male and female Spotted
Spotted Flycatcher’s Flycatchers are alike, but in the others summer males are
bright eyes and
alertness make it a
very different from female and winter plumages.
distinctive bird. All are migrants, the Spotted Flycatcher being one
of the last to arrive in spring. They mainly catch flies
on the wing, although the pied group also drop to the
ground; Spotted Flycatchers characteristically fly out
and return to the same perch.
313
WARBLERS AND ALLIES
pale buff-brown
dull and upperparts
rather pale
thin pale
eye-ring
Length 14 cm (51⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 20 – 24cm (8 – 91⁄ 2 in) Weight 16 – 23g (9⁄ 16 – 7⁄ 8 oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure
314
WARBLERS AND ALLIES
MALE
long, dark eye
square tail
MALE
with white
corners (SUMMER)
white
grey-brown wingbars
above
dull eye
incompletely
barred
IMMATURE
dull whitish underside
underside (1ST WINTER)
FEMALE
Length 15 –17cm (6 – 61⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 15 – 20cm (6 – 8in) Weight 12 –15g (7⁄ 16 – 9⁄ 16 oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure†
315
WARBLERS AND ALLIES
grey face
and throat
MALE
brown cap
pale grey
underside
IN FLIGHT
browner MALE
than male
FEMALE
Length 13cm (5in) Wingspan 20 – 23cm (8 – 9in) Weight 14 – 20g (1⁄ 2 – 11⁄ 16 oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure
316
WARBLERS AND ALLIES
Lesser Whitethroat
dark smudge
olive-grey to
plain brown through eye
blue-grey cap
wings
whitish
grey-brown
underside,
wings
dark grey washed pale
FEMALE legs pink
white
chin
MALE JUVENILE
Length 13cm (5in) Wingspan 17–19cm (61⁄ 2 –71⁄ 2 in) Weight 10 –16g (3⁄ 8 – 9⁄ 16 oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure
317
WARBLERS AND ALLIES
short, round
wings red eye-ring
pale grey
back
MALE
long big white
tail throat orange-red
eye-ring
grey head
IN FLIGHT
browner, paler
than male
whitish
underside
white
throat
long dark tail
with white sides MALE white edges
to tail
Length 13 –14cm (5 – 51⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 15 –18cm (6 –7in) Weight 10 –14g (3⁄ 8 –1⁄ 2 oz)
Social Family groups Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure
318
WARBLERS AND ALLIES
dull brown
pale bluish
grey head
long
MALE
dark tail,
edged
white
FEMALE
IN FLIGHT pink-buff
below
pale orange-
brown legs
bright wings
with blackish
feather MALE
centres JUVENILE
(AUTUMN)
T ypically a bird of open spaces with low bushes and scrub, the
Whitethroat likes overgrown tracksides, railway embankments,
hedgerows and fence-lines with brambles, or thorny thickets around FLIGHT: low, bouncy or jerky, flitting, undulating,
heaths. It sings often, sometimes from a low perch, sometimes from with flicked, untidy tail.
a high wire, but frequently in short, jerky, bouncy song-flights. It is
often quite secretive, keeping low down in thick vegetation, but LIVELY SINGER
gives itself away by its irritable calls and eventually succumbs to its The male sings with much more
insatiable curiosity and appears out in the open. vigour than melody, from a bush
VOICE Harsh, grating tcharr, scolding, softer churr, sweet, top or overhead wire.
musical wheet-a-wheet-a-whit; song often in fluttery
song-flight, quick, chattery, rambling warble
with dry, scratchy quality.
NESTING Small, neat cup of grass and stems
low in thorny shrub; 4 or 5 eggs; 2 broods;
April–July.
FEEDING Picks insects from foliage; takes
lots of berries and some seeds in late summer
and autumn, sometimes visiting gardens.
Length 14cm (51⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 19 – 23cm (71⁄ 2 – 9in) Weight 12 –18g (7⁄ 16 – 5⁄ 8 oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure
319
WARBLERS AND ALLIES
long, slim
bold white stripe
short, grey tail
under grey cheeks
round
wings
white MALE
edge white ring
to tail around red pinkish red
eye-ring from chin
to breast
pale pink
throat
whitish
underside
yellowish
legs
FEMALE
MALE
Length 12 –13cm (43⁄ 4 – 5in) Wingspan 13 –18cm (5 –7in) Weight 9 –12g (11⁄ 32 – 7⁄ 16 oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure
320
WARBLERS AND ALLIES
brownish
MALE grey back
long,
long, slender,
“bouncy”
dark tail
tail
IN FLIGHT
dark red-
brown
underside
FEMALE
MALE
Length 12 –13cm (43⁄ 4 – 5in) Wingspan 13 –18cm (5 –7in) Weight 9 –12g (11⁄ 32 – 7⁄ 16 oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Vulnerable
321
WARBLERS AND ALLIES
Sedge Warbler
wide silver-white
blackish and stripe over eye
cream streaks
unstreaked, on cap
tawny- dark line from
buff bill through eye
rump
ADULT
buff across
chest (finely
streaked on
IN FLIGHT juvenile)
and flanks
ADULT
whitish
soft greyish underside
streaks on
tawny back
Length 13cm (5in) Wingspan 17– 21cm (61⁄ 2 – 81⁄ 2 in) Weight 10 –13g (3⁄ 8 –7⁄ 16 oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure†
322
WARBLERS AND ALLIES
slight black
dark streaked, moustache
rust-brown back
white chin
and throat
orange-tawny
soft flanks
dark streaks white belly
on rounded
tail
IN FLIGHT
short wingtip
projection
Length 12 –13cm (43⁄ 4 –5in) Wingspan 17– 21cm (61⁄ 2 – 81⁄ 2 in) Weight 10 –15g (3⁄ 8 – 9⁄ 16 oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure†
323
WARBLERS AND ALLIES
IN FLIGHT
white
throat
slightly
rounded tail dark long, slim
brown or sharp bill
ADULT greyish legs
other, rarer, warblers, but unlike the common Sedge Warbler. Its
repetitive song is also distinctive as a rule, although subject to some FLIGHT: short, low, jerky flitting flights between
variation. On migration, Reed Warblers may be found in reeds or willows, tail low, sometimes spread as it tilts
unexpected places, such as thickets and hedgerows, posing over and dives into cover.
identification problems with less closely
GRASPING REEDS
related species such as Melodious Warblers. The Reed Warbler is adept at
VOICE Call simple, low churr or chk; grasping vertical stems and
song rhythmic, repetitive, low, with shuffling through dense reedbeds.
occasional high, musical variations, trrik
trrik trrik, chrr chrr chrr chrr, chewe chewe trrrt
trrrt trrrt tiri tiri.
NESTING Deep nest of grass, reedheads,
and moss, woven around several upright
stems in reedbed; 3–5 eggs; 2 broods;
May–July.
FEEDING Forages for insects and spiders
on mud and in thick, wet vegetation and
foliage of willows; also eats some seeds.
OCCURRENCE
SIMILAR SPECIES Widespread as breeding bird and
summer visitor north to Great
SEDGE WARBLER flatter head Britain and S Scandinavia. In
slightly
colder see p.322
shorter reedbeds, especially extensive,
brown pale stripe wings wet ones, but also in reedy ditches
above over eye
and willows beside lakes and
tawny rump rivers. Migrants on coasts between
April and October.
MARSH WARBLER
different song; mottled SAVI’S WARBLER Seen in the UK
see p.325 undertail coverts see p.329 J F M A M J J A S O N D
Length 13 –15cm (5– 6in) Wingspan 18 – 21cm (7– 81⁄ 2 in) Weight 11–15g (3⁄ 8 – 9⁄ 16 oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure
324
WARBLERS AND ALLIES
pale olive-brown
upperparts (warmer
squarish, brown on juvenile)
dark grey-
brown tail long dark wing
feathers, with
ADULT
sharp pale edges
IN FLIGHT
rump faintly
warmer brown long
wingtips
pale legs
ADULT
Length 13 –15cm (5– 6in) Wingspan 18 – 21cm (7– 81⁄ 2 in) Weight 11–15g (3⁄ 8 – 9⁄ 16 oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure
325
WARBLERS AND ALLIES
dark eye-
stripe white
throat
bright
rump
pale rufous-buff
underside
IN FLIGHT
long wingtips
broad, slightly
rounded, dark
FLIGHT: low, dashing, thrush-like darts between brown tail
reed clumps.
Length 16 – 20cm (61⁄ 2 – 8in) Wingspan 25 – 26cm (10in) Weight 30 – 40g (11⁄ 16 –17⁄ 16 oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure†
326
WARBLERS AND ALLIES
cream and
black stripes
on back
small,
round
tail
short, narrow, often
fanned, tail with black
and white spots below
IN FLIGHT
unmarked,
pale buff
underside
thin pink
legs
FLIGHT: typically low, fast, whirring, rather weak;
song-flight higher, bounding but slow.
Length 10 –11cm (4 – 41⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 12 –15cm (43⁄ 4 – 6in) Weight 10g (3⁄ 8 oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure†
327
WARBLERS AND ALLIES
Grasshopper Warbler
finely streaked crown
blunt wings and cheeks
IN FLIGHT
spotted or streaked,
pale olive-brown
back and rump
W arblers are split into several different families: this is the most
common of the Locustella warblers, which are small, streaked,
round-tailed, and highly skulking birds, usually hard to see.They
have long, trilled, chirping, or rattling songs often likened to
the sound of some insects such as crickets; these are
usually heard most often at dusk or on warm, still, sultry
summer days.These warblers are not to be expected in
tall bushes or trees, or openly flitting
HIGH-PITCHED SONG
about in hedgerows. Many people are unable to hear
VOICE Loud call, piercing psit; song such high-pitched sounds as the
remarkable, prolonged, unvarying Grasshopper Warbler’s song.
mechanical “reel”, fast, hard ticking at
close range on one high, sharp note,
waxes and wanes as head is turned:
sirrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr.
NESTING Small nest of grass and leaves
in dense, low vegetation; 5 or 6 eggs;
2 broods; May–July.
FEEDING Forages in very low, thick
vegetation, creeping mouse-like on or
near ground, finding mostly small
insects and spiders.
OCCURRENCE
SIMILAR SPECIES Widespread from Ireland, east
to Finland and Russia, south to
SEDGE WARBLER plain back DUNNOCK C France, N Spain, and Alps in
see p.322 and tail see p.292
summer. In marshy areas with
more bigger and grass, low thickets, heathy places,
obvious stouter
and grassy meadows with thorny
stripe over greyer
eye bushes where grass grows up
through thickets.
REED WARBLER Seen in the UK
see p.324 J F M A M J J A S O N D
Length 12.5cm (5in) Wingspan 15 –19cm (6 –71⁄ 2 in) Weight 11–15g (3⁄ 8 – 9⁄ 16 oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure
328
WARBLERS AND ALLIES
round wings
plain brown
above
pale throat
brown-buff
IN FLIGHT underside with
paler belly
Length 14 –15cm (51⁄ 2 – 6in) Wingspan 15 – 20cm (6 – 8in) Weight 12 –15g (7⁄ 16 – 9⁄ 16 oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure†
329
WARBLERS AND ALLIES
short, round,
rusty brown
wings dark reddish brown
upperparts
short,
sharp bill
round
tail
pale grey
underside
IN FLIGHT
rusty brown
under tail
with pale bars
broad dark
red-brown
Length 14cm (51⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 15 –19cm (6 –71⁄ 2 in) Weight 12 –18g (7⁄ 16 – 5⁄ 8 oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure
330
WARBLERS AND ALLIES
IN FLIGHT
O ne of the handful
of Hippolais warblers,
the Icterine Warbler is large,
square-tailed, and broad-billed. JUVENILE
The broad bill is not always obvious,
but even in a side view, does look
strong, long, and straight, almost spike-like,
emphasized by its pale colour. Hippolais FLIGHT: quite strong, direct, long-winged,
warblers are best identified by distribution and swerving into cover.
structure, especially the proportions of the
GENERIC CHARACTER
various elements of wing, tail, and undertail Hippolais warblers are heavy, with
coverts, which help to separate them from plain faces and dagger-like bills.
each other and from confusingly similar
Acrocephalus species.
VOICE Call melodious ti-ti-looi or di-deroi,
hard tik; song loud, fast, prolonged, varied
warbling with many imitations, short, shrill,
nasal notes and dideroi call intermixed.
NESTING Deep cup nest suspended from
forked branch in tree; 4 or 5 eggs; 1 brood;
May–August.
FEEDING Takes insects from foliage; pulls
berries from twigs with tug of bill. OCCURRENCE
Widespread as summer visitor and
SIMILAR SPECIES breeding bird from E France
eastwards and northwards except
MELODIOUS WARBLER dark eye- REED WARBLER in N Scandinavia. In open mixed,
see p.332 stripe smaller head see p.324
rounder and bill deciduous, or coniferous woodland
head smaller between April and September.
shorter Spring and especially autumn
wings with browner; no migrants on NW European coasts
pale panel green or yellow including E Great Britain.
notched WILLOW WARBER Seen in the UK
tail see p.333 J F M A M J J A S O N D
Length 13.5cm (5– 6in) Wingspan 20 – 24cm (8 – 91⁄ 2 in) Weight 10 –14g (3⁄ 8 –1⁄ 2 oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure
331
WARBLERS AND ALLIES
Melodious Warbler
big dark eye
rather long, in pale face
round wings
thick, spiky
pale bill
yellow
IN FLIGHT JUVENILE throat and
breast
Length 12 –13cm (43⁄ 4 – 5in) Wingspan 18 – 20cm (7– 8in) Weight 11–14g (3⁄ 8 –1⁄ 2 oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure†
332
WARBLERS AND ALLIES
ADULT much
yellower
underside buff-white
to pale
IN FLIGHT JUVENILE yellow
underside
T he Phylloscopus
warblers are small, slim
birds of trees and bushes, able to slip
quietly through foliage without the
pale yellowish
bounce and erratic agility of the small tits or brown legs
the heavier progress of the larger Sylvia warblers.
European breeding species are basically pale green and ADULT
yellowish.The Willow Warbler is generally most
common and most widespread, and more conservative
in its choice of habitat than most. In spring, it has a fine, FLIGHT: quick, light, bouncy flitting action over
simple, and beautifully evocative song. Like other short distances.
warblers, it is more or less solitary except when feeding SIGN OF SPRING
young, or when a handful coincidentally feed A Willow Warbler’s beautiful, fluid
in the same tree while on migration.Willow cadence is a sure sign of spring:
Warblers are more grey-brown above and dull in April, dozens may appear
white below, less green and yellow, in the far overnight and start singing.
north and northeast of Europe.
VOICE Sweet, simple, double call hoo-eet; song
lovely, cascading, trilling warble, rising, full
notes then falling thinner and fading away
with slight flourish.
NESTING Small, domed nest of grass on or
near ground in thick cover; 6 or 7 eggs;
1 brood;April–May.
FEEDING Picks insects and spiders from foliage, slipping gently and easily through
leaves; catches some flies in air.
OCCURRENCE
SIMILAR SPECIES Breeds everywhere north from
mid-France and C Europe except
CHIFFCHAFF rounder cleaner plainer head for Iceland. Present from April to
see p.336 head green October; common migrant in
thin eye- S Europe. Prefers light woodland,
ring
whiter scrub, and bushes of all kinds,
yellow
on chest below especially birch and willow, but
short wings white on not often gardens.
spindly WOOD WARBLER
belly BONELLI’S WARBLER Seen in the UK
blackish legs see p.334 see p.335 J F M A M J J A S O N D
Length 11cm (41⁄ 4 in) Wingspan 17– 22cm (61⁄ 2 – 9in) Weight 6 –10g (7⁄ 32 – 3⁄ 8 oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure
333
WARBLERS AND ALLIES
Wood Warbler
long, wide yellow
stripe over eye
long wings bright, clear
green upperside
brownish wings
with pale yellowish
feather edges
long wingtips
(often drooped
beside tail) thick dark line
through eye
pale sulphur-yellow
IN FLIGHT chin and upper
breast
silky white
underside
Length 13cm (5in) Wingspan 19 – 24cm (71⁄ 2 – 91⁄ 2 in) Weight 7–12g (1⁄ 4 – 7⁄ 16 oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure†
334
WARBLERS AND ALLIES
solid,
spike-
like bill
yellowish
rump
green wings with
pale greenish
yellow coverts
silky white
IN FLIGHT underside
pale grey-
brown legs
Length 11–12cm (41⁄ 4 – 43⁄ 4 in) Wingspan 19 – 23cm (71⁄ 2 – 9in) Weight 7–11g (1⁄ 4 – 3⁄ 8 oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure
335
WARBLERS AND ALLIES
pale greenish to
yellowish buff
underside
IN FLIGHT
tail bobbed
down
thin
blackish legs
olive-tinged
green body
ADULT
Length 10 –11cm (4 – 41⁄ 4 in) Wingspan 15 – 21cm (6 – 81⁄ 2 in) Weight 6 – 9g (7⁄ 32 –11⁄ 32 oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure†
336
WARBLERS AND ALLIES
blackish
wings
ADULT
ADULT
IN FLIGHT
Length 8.5 – 9cm (31⁄ 4 – 31⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 13 –15.5cm (5 – 6in) Weight 5 –7g (3⁄ 16 –1⁄ 4 oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan 2 – 3 years Status Secure†
337
WARBLERS AND ALLIES
IN FLIGHT
whitish below
ADULT
ADULT
Length 9cm (31⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 13 –16cm (5 – 61⁄ 2 in) Weight 5 –7g (3⁄ 16 – 1⁄ 4 oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan 2 – 3 years Status Secure
338
FLYCATCHERS
long, plain
Length 14cm (51⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 23 – 25cm (9 –10in) Weight 14 –19g (1⁄ 2 – 11⁄ 16 oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan 3 – 5 years Status Declining
339
FLYCATCHERS
white
sides
to tail black tail
with white
FEMALE sides
IN FLIGHT white
dull brown underparts
back
white wing
patch
short dark legs
blacker
wings JUVENILE
MALE (SUMMER)
Length 13cm (5in) Wingspan 21– 24cm (81⁄ 2 – 91⁄ 2 in) Weight 12 –15g (7⁄ 16 –9⁄ 16 oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan 3 – 5 years Status Secure
340
TITS AND ALLIES
UNIQUE CREST
Other tits in the world have
crests, but the headgear of the
Crested Tit is unlike that of any
other woodland bird in Europe.
341
TITS AND ALLIES
yellower cheeks
pale wingbar
white cheek
patch
MALE green
back
blue-grey JUVENILE
wings
thick black
stripe down
underside
SIMILAR SPECIES
OCCURRENCE
BLUE TIT32; pale
white on nape Breeds and all-year round resident
white ring around
blue almost throughout Europe except
nape; see p.344
cap in Iceland. All-year in wide variety
smaller
of mixed woodland, parks, and
no yellow
or green gardens; in S Europe, also on
warm, scrubby hillsides.
COAL TIT Seen in the UK
see p.343 J F M A M J J A S O N D
Length 14cm (35in) Wingspan 22 – 25cm (9 –10in) Weight 16 – 21g (9⁄ 16 – 3⁄ 4 oz)
Social Loose flocks Lifespan 2 – 3 years Status Secure
342
TITS AND ALLIES
big
black
bib
ADULT white
cheeks
white
IN FLIGHT nape
bright buff
yellower underside
cheeks
JUVENILE
SIMILAR SPECIES
OCCURRENCE
strong green no white no white Breeds through all of Europe
and yellow nape patch nape patch
except Iceland and extreme
much N Scandinavia. Lives all year round
bigger no wingbar in mixed but mainly coniferous
woodland, wooded parks, and
no wingbar
gardens close to conifer woods.
GREAT TIT 32; MARSH TIT WILLOW TIT Seen in the UK
see p.342 see p.347 see p.346 J F M A M J J A S O N D
Length 11.5cm (41⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 17– 21cm (61⁄ 2 – 81⁄ 2 in) Weight 8 –10g (5⁄ 16 – 3⁄ 8 oz)
Social Loose flocks Lifespan 2 – 3 years Status Secure
343
TITS AND ALLIES
surrounded by
white
white bars on
blue wings
dark line
through eye
dull yellow
underside
white cheeks
JUVENILE
MALE
narrow
black chin
IN FLIGHT
slightly less
blue than
male
pale yellow
underside with
thin, dark
central streak
Length 11.5cm (41⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 17– 20cm (61⁄ 2 – 8in) Weight 9 –12g (11⁄ 32 – 7⁄ 16 oz)
Social Loose flocks Lifespan 2 – 3 years Status Secure
344
TITS AND ALLIES
brown
tail warm brown white face
back with black
edge to
cheek
IN FLIGHT
buff
underside
T here are titmice with crests elsewhere in the world but this one
is unique in Europe and thus easy to identify even in silhouette.
It is a pine forest specialist, in the UK restricted to northern Scotland
and more numerous in ancient pine forest than in newer plantations.
It seems to require some variation, with clearings and forest edge, as
well as dead or dying tree stumps in which it can nest. It is easily
located by its distinctive stuttering call.
Like other titmice, the Crested Tit is
PINE SPECIALIST
almost oblivious to the presence of Although found in mixed woods in
people and can be watched feeding Europe, most Crested Tits prefer
from very close range. old pine forest, with dead trees and
VOICE Quick, low, rather soft trill stumps to excavate a nest-hole in.
or stutter, b’d-rrrr-rup, also usual thin,
high tit zit or zee.
NESTING Soft cup in hole in
decaying tree stump; 5–7 eggs;
1 brood;April–June.
FEEDING Eats small insects and
spiders; in winter, takes seeds, many
from stores made in spring; visits
feeders in wooded gardens.
Length 11.5cm (41⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 17– 20cm (61⁄ 2 – 8in) Weight 10 –13g (3⁄ 8 – 7⁄ 16 oz)
Social Loose flocks Lifespan 2 – 3 years Status Secure
345
TITS AND ALLIES
big, dull
well back
small, rounded,
plain brown wings
dull brown
back
black chin
pale panel
on wings
dull grey-buff
underside
IN FLIGHT
rich orange-buff
flanks
PEANUT RAIDER
Length 11.5cm (41⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 17–18cm (61⁄ 2 –7in) Weight 9 –11g (11⁄ 32 – 3⁄ 8 oz)
Social Loose flocks Lifespan 2 – 3 years Status Secure†
346
TITS AND ALLIES
pale grey-buff
underside
IN FLIGHT
challenge even to
experienced birdwatchers:
their calls are helpful. It is essential to know the most frequently
used ones to tell the two apart: a distinct pit-chew call is the best
clue to a Marsh Tit, quite unlike any call used by the Willow. Both
birds visit gardens but much less persistently than the Blue Tits and
Great Tits. Marsh Tits like the vicinity of mature deciduous trees, FLIGHT: low, weak, flitting, with bursts of
especially beeches and oaks, although they often forage at a low wingbeats, similar to close relatives.
level among thick undergrowth.They join mixed
NEAT APPEARANCE
winter tit flocks, but usually only one or two hang A glossy cap and uniform wings
around at the edges. Like most tits, Marsh Tits use give the Marsh Tit a neat look, and
existing holes in which to nest, while Willow Tits are good identification clues to
excavate their own. distinguish it from the Willow Tit.
VOICE Loud calls, often titi-zee-zee-zee, tchair, most
distinctive a unique loud, bright, pit-chew!; song
infrequent, quick, rippling schip-schip-schip-schip.
NESTING Grass and moss cup in existing hole in
tree or wall, not often in nest box; 6–8 eggs;
1 brood;April–June.
FEEDING Mostly feeds on insects and spiders in
summer; takes seeds, berries, and nits in autumn
and winter, often from ground.
SIMILAR SPECIES
OCCURRENCE
much smaller cap paler wing Breeds in S UK, S Scandinavia, and
panel
east across middle Europe, south
to Italy and Balkans. In deciduous
no dark woodland and parkland with tall
white chin trees, sometimes visiting gardens
wingbars
to use feeders especially in winter.
COAL TIT BLACKCAP 32; WILLOW TIT Seen in the UK
see p.343 see p.316 see p.346 J F M A M J J A S O N D
Length 11.5cm (41⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 18 –19cm (7–71⁄ 2 in) Weight 10 –12g (3⁄ 8 – 7⁄ 16 oz)
Social Loose flocks Lifespan 2 – 3 years Status Secure
347
TITS AND ALLIES
Long-tailed Tit
black band back
from eye dull white
mixed dull black
and pink back head
JUVENILE
Length 14cm (51⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 16 –19cm (61⁄ 2 –71⁄ 2 in) Weight 7– 9g (1⁄ 4 – 11⁄ 32 oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan 2 – 3 years Status Secure
348
TITS AND ALLIES
big black
yellow eye
streaked
wings “moustache”
round
wings
rufous
tail
MALE
long FEMALE
tail
tawny-brown,
cream, and
black back
IN FLIGHT
whitish eye of pale tawny
male (black in underside
black back female)
Length 12.5cm (5in) Wingspan 16 –18cm (61⁄ 2 –7in) Weight 12 –18g (7⁄ 16 – 5⁄ 8 oz)
Social Loose flocks Lifespan 2 – 3 years Status Secure†
349
TITS AND ALLIES
narrower black
deep red-brown mask broad
band across black
wings mask
red-brown
back
MALE
plain head
gradually
develops
IN FLIGHT black
FEMALE
uniform, plain,
pale brown buffish
back underside
black legs
plain dark
tail
MALE
JUVENILE
BOTTLE NEST
The remarkable flask-shaped nest
A small, neat, well-patterned bird, the
Penduline Tit can be hard to spot (even
though easily heard) in tall riverside treetops;
of the Penduline Tit has a short
entrance tube high up on one side.
Length 10 –11cm (4 – 41⁄ 4 in) Wingspan 20cm (8in) Weight 8 –10g (5⁄ 16 – 3⁄ 8 oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan 3 – 5 years Status Secure†
350
NUTHATCHES, WALLCREEPERS, AND TREECREEPERS
NUTHATCHES, WALLCREEPERS,
AND TREECREEPERS
occasionally gives breathtaking views at close
T HESE ARE ALL BIRDS that find their food
while creeping and climbing over hard
surfaces: tree bark, walls, or rocks. There are two
range, which is always a memorable encounter.
Wallcreepers creep in a rather crouched stance,
species pairs and one totally unique species. bobbing as if mounted on springs, with frequent
outward flicks of their wingtips.
NUTHATCHES
Nuthatches are agile, using the strength of their TREECREEPERS
legs and toes to grip, and able to cling underneath Treecreepers literally creep on trees: they can hang
branches or overhang, and as easily able to move beneath a branch, but use the tail as a support, so
head-down as right-way up. The Nuthatch is a never descend head-first. Identification is difficult,
woodland bird but also feeds on the ground; the unless a bird is definitely outside the range of
Rock Nuthatch is a bird of rocks, walls, and ruins. one or other, or it is singing. Treecreeper and
Short-toed Treecreeper songs are usually
WALLCREEPERS distinctive, but the latter may sometimes sing
Nothing else even confusingly like the former. Close examination,
suggests a Wallcreeper: preferably of photographs, is necessary to identify
it is a stunning bird of a stray outside its normal range. Treecreepers
mountain cliffs and join roving bands of tits in winter, when woods
gorges, sometimes seem empty until, suddenly, trees are “full of
coming to quarries, birds” for a few minutes, before they move on.
bridges, and large
buildings lower down
in winter. It is elusive,
hard to spot against
grey rock, but
STRONG GRIP
Nuthatches can more or less cling
to a branch at any angle, head-
down or head-up.
FLOATING FLIGHT
Wallcreepers in flight,
despite their small size, are
absolutely spectacular. At
a distance the white spots
are more evident than the
deep red on the wings.
351
NUTHATCHES, WALLCREEPER, AND TREECREEPERS
Nuthatch dagger-like
grey bill
IN FLIGHT
large feet
Length 12.5cm (5in) Wingspan 16 –18cm (61⁄ 2 –7in) Weight 12 –18g (7⁄ 16 – 5⁄ 8 oz)
Social Loose flocks Lifespan 2 – 3 years Status Secure
352
NUTHATCHES, WALLCREEPER, AND TREECREEPERS
MALE (SUMMER)
short tail
FEMALE
(SUMMER)
OCCURRENCE
Mostly rare and local; breeds in
Pyrenees, Alps, and Balkans,
typically up close to snow line.
Little more widespread in S Europe
in winter, coming to lower altitudes.
On rocks, cliff faces, in gorges and
quarries, but only rarely moving
far from breeding range.
EXCELLENT CAMOUFLAGE
Seen in the UK
The red of the Wallcreeper’s wing is not very obvious at long range: it
J F M A M J J A S O N D
often looks dark grey and is easily lost against a rocky background.
Length 15 –17cm (6 – 61⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 30 – 35cm (12 –14in) Weight 25g (7⁄ 8 oz)
Social Family groups Lifespan 3 – 5 years Status Secure†
353
NUTHATCHES, WALLCREEPER, AND TREECREEPERS
whitish stripe
whitish over eye
wingbar
silky white
underside
cream and
blackish mottling
notched on brown back
brown
tail
IN FLIGHT
large but
slender feet
Length 12.5cm (5in) Wingspan 18 – 21cm (7– 81⁄ 2 in) Weight 8 –12g (5⁄ 16 – 7⁄ 16 oz)
Social Mixed flocks Lifespan 2 – 3 years Status Secure
354
NUTHATCHES, WALLCREEPER, AND TREECREEPERS
Short-toed Treecreeper
long, slender, slightly
looks slim and downcurved bill
weak in flight
clean white
slightly drab throat
above
whitish wingbar
IN FLIGHT
Length 12.5cm (5in) Wingspan 18 – 21cm (7– 81⁄ 2 in) Weight 8 –12g (5⁄ 16 – 7⁄ 16 oz)
Social Mixed flocks Lifespan 2 – 3 years Status Secure
355
SHRIKES/ORIOLES
Family Laniidae
SHRIKES
T HRUSH-LIKE IN SHAPE and general form,
shrikes have stout, sharp, hooked bills and
strong feet, and they are every bit as predatory as
the small falcons. They drop to the ground onto
prey, from a perch, or catch insects and birds in
flight: a shrike will pursue and catch a bird almost
as big as itself.
Shrikes are migratory, the Great Grey Shrike
moving to western Europe in winter, others going
to Africa. Most species are suited to warmer parts
of southern and eastern Europe, where there are
abundant large insects. Intensive farming in many
areas has reduced their numbers and the Red-
backed Shrike has only recently been lost as a
breeding bird in parts of its original range.
IMMACULATE MALE
Some species have obvious sexual differences in
This Lesser Grey Shrike is in plumage, others are more or less the same.
perfect spring plumage, the Identification is likely to pose problems only with
pink breast at its strongest migrant juveniles in autumn. Then precise details
and the black of the wings
yet to fade browner.
of bill, head, wing, and tail patterns are necessary to
confirm more general impressions of size and shape.
Family Oriolidae
ORIOLES
S EVERAL SPECIES look vividly
coloured in books; some may
disppoint a little in real life. The male
ELONGATED SHAPE
A Golden Oriole is rather
thrush-like in form but longer-
Golden Oriole, however, is always a wonderful bodied and longer-winged,
and with much shorter legs.
sight if seen well, a vivid buttercup yellow and
black. Strangely, it is remarkably elusive.
The song is loud and obvious, always an easy
clue to the presence of an oriole, but seeing it
is still difficult most of the time. Orioles live in
dense foliage, typically in poplars or oak wood-
land, and even their bright colours are hard to
spot in the dappled light and shade of a wind-
swept leafy canopy.
Male and female usually differ but old females
become almost as bright as males. In winter,
orioles migrate to Africa, where they come into
contact with several other similar species. In
Europe, nothing else is similar except for a poorly
seen Green Woodpecker in flight, which recalls
the female oriole, and no other bird is remotely
so yellow and black as the adult male.
356
SHRIKES
blue head
dark patch
behind eye
grey rufous-brown
rump back
MALE
warm
brown
back slight scaly
barring on
greyish buff
underside shell-pink
underside
FEMALE
rufous FEMALE
tail
IN FLIGHT
Length 16 –18cm (61⁄ 2 –7in) Wingspan 24 – 27cm (91⁄ 2 – 101⁄ 2 in) Weight 25 – 30g (7⁄ 8 – 11⁄ 16 oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan 3 – 5 years Status Declining†
357
SHRIKES
bold white
shoulder patch white scapulars
with thin dark
grey-brown crescents
upperparts
MALE
white pale underside,
rump barred grey
IN FLIGHT JUVENILE
pale area
around eye
black and
white back
white “V”
on back
white below
FEMALE
black tail with
white at base
Length 17–19cm (61⁄ 2 –71⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 25 – 30cm (10 –12in) Weight 25 – 35g (7⁄ 8 –11⁄ 4 oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan 3 – 5 years Status Vulnerable
358
SHRIKES
IN FLIGHT
FEMALE
dull white underside
(very faint barring
on juvenile
MALE
Length 22 – 26cm (9 –10in) Wingspan 30cm (12in) Weight 30 – 40g (11⁄ 16 –17⁄ 16 oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan 3 – 5 years Status Declining
359
SHRIKES
scaly grey
back
ADULT grey, black, and
medium white above
grey back
IN FLIGHT
JUVENILE
pink
underside
FLIGHT: flies low, quite strong but undulating, with
deep wingbeats; upward swoop to perch.
T he Lesser Grey
Shrike, like several
other black, white, and
wingtips extend
down to tail
MALE
grey species, is a striking, neat-looking, handsome bird.
Usually quite obvious, it behaves like other shrikes in
perching on open perches much of the time (but, like
them, can be frustratingly elusive on occasions). It frequently
flies out to chase prey, or drops to the ground with a flurry
of white-barred wings. It is the southeastern counterpart of
the Great Grey Shrike, preferring warm, dry summer climates
and migrating to Africa in winter. In parts of eastern
Europe, migrants follow long lines of trees beside roads in
areas that are otherwise open, treeless croplands. Shrikes have
strong claws to catch and hold prey and use their hooked
bills to kill and tear up small birds and voles. Food may be
impaled on thorns to make it easier to deal with.
VOICE Short, hard tchek tchek; brief, bright, screaming note
serves as song often given in hovering flight.
NESTING Untidy structure of grass and twigs high in bush
or tree; 5–7 eggs; 1 brood; May–June.
FEEDING Watches from high perch such as overhead wire SPRING MALE
and drops onto lizards, beetles, and small birds. The male Lesser Grey Shrike looks handsome with his bold mask
and pink underside.
SIMILAR SPECIES OCCURRENCE
Breeds in extreme S France, Italy,
GREAT GREY SHRIKE and more widely in Balkans and
pale
see p.359
forehead E Europe. Seen from March to
larger
browner September, chiefly in open places
shorter
wings with scattered trees, bushes,
more scaly
orchards, and avenues, and in
WOODCHAT SHRIKE woodland edges.
juvenile, similar
longer to juvenile; Seen in the UK
tail see p.358 slimmer bill J F M A M J J A S O N D
Length 19 – 21cm (71⁄ 2 –81⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 30cm (12in) Weight 30g (11⁄ 16 oz)
Social Solitary Lifespan 3 – 5 years Status Declining†
360
ORIOLES
Golden Oriole
vivid yellow
bold and intense bright
quite pointed black plumage pink-red
yellow wingtips
rump bill
greener plumage
than male’s
MALE
black
wings
FEMALE
pale
yellow
IN FLIGHT rear flanks
MALE
FLIGHT: thrush-like, direct, slightly undulating,
swift from tree to tree.
D espite its bright colour and loud, unique song, the Golden Oriole
mostly remains hidden in dense foliage. Occasional brief glimpses
may be followed by a longer view as it flies to the next belt of
woodland, looking like a large, fast-flying yellow thrush. Females look
more like Green Woodpeckers in flight but lack the
yellow rump; they look quite different when perched.
Orioles prefer leafy belts of oak, chestnut, and
especially poplars.
VOICE Hoarse, strained, Jay-like or cat-like meeaik,
fast gigigi; song far-carrying, loud, short phrase, very
full-throated and fluty with yodelling quality, such
as wee-dl-eyo, wee-weo-we-weedl, or weeeoo.
NESTING Shallow nest of grass and strips of bark,
slung beneath horizontal fork in branch, high in tree;
3 or 4 eggs; 1 brood; May–June.
FEEDING Takes caterpillars and other invertebrates STUNNING COLOURS
from foliage within dense tree canopy; also feeds on One of Europe’s most striking birds, good views of an adult male reveal a
berries in late summer and autumn. bird of brilliant yellow and intense black.
361
CROWS/STARLINGS
Family Corvidae
CROWS
MAGPIE
T HERE IS CONSIDERABLE VARIATION
the crow family within Europe. The Jay
in
RAUCOUS CALLS
The loud, rough, cawing calls
of Rooks fit in well with a rural
setting, above the treetops of
a country churchyard or park.
Family Sturnidae
STARLINGS
T WO SPECIES ARE MOSTLY dark, shiny,
quarrelsome birds; the third is paler when
juvenile and pink and black when adult.
All the starlings are rather squat, sharp-
billed, short-tailed birds that walk and run in
a quick, shuffling fashion and fly quickly,
often in dense flocks. Starlings also gather to
roost in woods, reedbeds, and on structures
HIGHLY SOCIAL such as piers and bridges, in gigantic flocks,
Starlings are much more ready to rub although numbers have recently declined
shoulders than most birds. dramatically in many areas.
362
CROWS
white wingtips
with black lines black wings, glossed
green-blue
ADULT
white belly
IN FLIGHT
plumage
pattern like
adult’s ADULT
tail shorter
than adult’s
at first JUVENILE
OCCURRENCE
Breeding bird in all of Europe
except for Iceland, and seen all
year. In farmland with hedges,
at edges of woodland, in towns
and parks; increasing recently
in suburbs, often visiting gardens
with hedges and shrubs.
SWOOPING FLIGHT
Seen in the UK
Magpies look laboured in long-distance flight, but are agile enough in tight
J F M A M J J A S O N D
spaces and quick to dive from a high perch to snatch up a scrap of food.
Length 44 – 46cm (171⁄ 2 –18in) Wingspan 52 – 60cm (201⁄ 2 – 231⁄ 2 in) Weight 200 – 250g (7– 9oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan 10 –15 years Status Secure
363
CROWS
short, thick
dark bill
thick black
moustache
white patch on
blackish wings
pale, pinkish
grey body
“anting”
posture
large
white
rump
IN FLIGHT
blue panel
on wings
black
tail
A woodland bird that also ventures into parks and large gardens,
the Jay is usually shy and not easy to watch for long periods:
a harsh call may be the only clue to its presence. It may become
FLIGHT: slow, laboured, rowing action of broad
wings; often quite high over woodland in autumn
when collecting acorns.
much tamer, however, when it is left undisturbed in
parks, and can be watched feeding on the ground
under trees, or perhaps collecting acorns, which it
does with great industry every autumn. It can carry
several in a pouch under the throat, plus one in the
bill, and buries hundreds each year for consumption
in the winter and spring. It has an exaggerated,
bouncy action while hopping on the ground. Jays
sometimes deliberately place ants on their feathers, a
behaviour called anting.The purpose of this is unclear
but it probably helps to rid them of parasites.
VOICE Nasal, mewing pee-oo, short barking call; main ACORN COLLECTOR
The Jay collects acorns every autumn, buries them, and usually digs them
call loud, tearing-cloth sound, harsh skairk!
out to eat late in the winter or spring, when other food is scarce.
NESTING Bulky nest of
sticks, low down in thick SIMILAR SPECIES OCCURRENCE
bush; 4 or 5 eggs; HOOPOE Breeds in almost all of Europe,
1 brood;April–June. see p.256 except in N Scotland, Iceland,
FEEDING Eats anything and N Scandinavia. In parks with
long, curved
from caterpillars to small bill extensive lawns and various
rodents: chiefly insects in woodland, especially with oak; also
visits large gardens. N European
summer with some barred
wings birds move southwest in winter.
eggs and small chicks
and acorns (collected Seen in the UK
J F M A M J J A S O N D
and stored) in winter.
Length 34 – 35cm (131⁄ 2 –14in) Wingspan 52 – 58cm (201⁄ 2 – 23in) Weight 140 –190g (5 –7oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure†
364
CROWS
ADULT
thickset body
white- IN FLIGHT
tipped
black tail unspotted, brownish
black wings (spotted
on juvenile)
white
under tail
Length 32 – 35cm (121⁄ 2 –14in) Wingspan 49 – 53cm (191⁄ 2 – 21in) Weight 120 –170g (4 – 6oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure†
365
CROWS
glossy black
body
ADULT
IN FLIGHT
JUVENILE
ADULT
Length 37– 41cm (141⁄ 2 –16in) Wingspan 68 – 80cm (27– 32in) Weight 280 – 360g (10 –13oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan 5 –10 years Status Vulnerable
366
CROWS
Alpine Chough
neater, smoother short, pale
long, fingered, slightly shape than yellow bill
rounded wings Chough
glossy black
two-toned body
underwing
IN FLIGHT
red legs
rounded tip
to long tail
SIMILAR SPECIES
OCCURRENCE
ROOK CHOUGH Breeding bird and resident all year
see p.369 squarer wings; red
see p.366 in Pyrenees, Alps, Italy, and
thicker bill
black bill Balkans. From coasts in winter to
highest peaks, on cliffs and alpine
pasture. Often found around ski
larger resorts and lifts.
squarer Seen in the UK
tail J F M A M J J A S O N D
Length 36 – 39cm (14 –151⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 65 –74cm (26 – 29in) Weight 250 – 350g (9 –13oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan 5 –10 years Status Secure†
367
CROWS
grey-black
body
whitish eye
short,
thick
bill
IN FLIGHT
dark grey
underwings
Length 33 – 34cm (13 –131⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 67–74cm (26 – 29in) Weight 220 – 270g (8 –10oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan 5 –10 years Status Secure†
368
CROWS
Rook peaked
crown
bill tapers
to point
glossy black
wings more body bare white skin
pointed than face dark
around bill base
Carrion Crow’s at first
narrow,
rounded
tail
thin
bill
ADULT
IN FLIGHT
loose, ragged
rounded
thigh feathers
tail
JUVENILE
ADULT
Length 44 – 46cm (171⁄ 2 –18in) Wingspan 81– 99cm (32 – 39in) Weight 460 – 520g (17–19oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan 5 –10 years Status Secure
369
CROWS
square
wingtips
thick,
arched
glossy black bill
C. c. cornix body
(HOODED CROW)
heavy pale
body
tight body
feathering
square
tail
IN FLIGHT
Length 44 – 51cm (171⁄ 2 – 20in) Wingspan 93 –104cm (37– 41in) Weight 540 – 600g (19 – 21oz)
Social Occasional flocks Lifespan 5 –10 years Status Secure
370
CROWS
long, angular,
fingered
wings
all-black plumage
protruding
head
loose
throat
feathers can
be expanded
as beard
wedge IN FLIGHT
or diamond-
shaped tail
long tail
SIMILAR SPECIES
OCCURRENCE
CARRION CROW ROOK In most of Europe except lowland
different call; see p.369
see p.370 Britain, France, Low Countries,
slimmer thin
squarer bill bill and east to Denmark; year-round
tail resident in large forests, mountain
smaller regions, open moorland, and hills
smaller with crags and isolated trees.
Seen in the UK
J F M A M J J A S O N D
Length 54 – 67cm (211⁄ 2 – 26in) Wingspan 1.2 –1.5m (4 – 5ft) Weight 0.8 –1.5kg (13⁄ 4 – 21⁄ 4lb)
Social Pairs/Small flocks Lifespan 10 –15 years Status Secure†
371
STARLINGS
short, ADULT
square (WINTER)
tail
glossy black body
with green and
purple sheen
IN FLIGHT IMMATURE
(MOULTING; AUTUMN)
plain brown
body dark bill
MALE
JUVENILE long, strong, (SPRING)
red-brown legs
Length 21cm (81⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 37– 42cm (141⁄ 2 –161⁄ 2 in) Weight 75 – 90g (25⁄ 8 – 31⁄ 4 oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure
372
STARLINGS
gradually develops
ADULT long, loose, pointed
adult colours
plumes around neck
and breast
purple-black body
with dull oily
sheen (duller
in winter)
red-brown tinge
on wingtips, seen
against light
IN FLIGHT
JUVENILE (MOULTING)
plain brown
back and
wings
scattered, small
dark spots on red-pink legs
underside
JUVENILE MALE
(SUMMER)
Length 21cm (81⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 37– 42cm (141⁄ 2 –161⁄ 2 in) Weight 75 – 90g (25⁄ 8 – 31⁄ 4 oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan Up to 5 years Status Secure
373
SPARROWS
Family Passeridae
SPARROWS
R ELATED MORE CLOSELY to the African
weavers than to the similar finches,
sparrows are adaptable and widespread birds, the
House Sparrows used to gather in hundreds to
feed on grain and weed seeds in winter stubbles,
but have declined in most places in recent years.
House Sparrow being closely associated with Breeding birds may be in loose colonies, using a
people wherever they are. variety of sites including the base of White Stork
Male and female plumages are markedly nests, thickets, and dense creepers on walls, but
different in House and Spanish Sparrows, but House Sparrows mostly occupy holes or cavities
identical in the Tree Sparrow (both looking more of some sort in roofs and under eaves. Renovation
like a House Sparrow male). Rock Sparrows, in of wooden eaves with plastic cladding has often
another genus altogether, are quite different, but been blamed for local declines. Even inside a
have no obvious variations in their plumage. small cavity, the nest is a mass of grass and other
All sparrows are social. Spanish Sparrows are stems, feathers, and scraps, with an overall rounded
especially gregarious where they are common. effect that recalls the weavers, but lacking the
neatness and precision of construction
that characterizes their nests. Both House
and Tree Sparrows are suffering a
widespread decline in western Europe.
FEATHER LINING
A House Sparrow is about to add
a feather to its nest under an
old tile in a roof.
FEEDING FLOCK
Sparrows burst from a stubble field with a loud roar of wings. They feed in tight-
packed flocks, often mixed with Greenfinches and Linnets, which also pack closely
together in many situations, while other finches and buntings form loose groups.
VIGOROUS BATHING
Sparrows bathe regularly, in
water as well as in dust, helping
to keep their plumage in good
condition and free of parasites.
374
SPARROWS
red-brown
back black bib
MALE (bigger in
spring) IMMATURE (AUTUMN)
pale
greyish
rump yellow-brown
cap
unmarked grey
IN FLIGHT underside pale stripe
(grey-buff behind eye
on female)
plain
brown
tail
MALE (SUMMER)
Length 14cm (51⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 20 – 22cm (8 – 9in) Weight 19 – 25g (11⁄ 16 – 7⁄ 8 oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan 2 – 5 years Status Secure
375
SPARROWS
cream streaks
MALE on black back
(SUMMER)
MALE
(WINTER)
IN FLIGHT
thick bill
SIMILAR SPECIES
HOUSE SPARROW 32; ITALIAN SPARROW TREE SPARROW OCCURRENCE
see p.375 (P. d. italiae); see p.377
see p.375 Local breeding bird in Spain,
grey crown Sardinia, and Sicily, more frequent
less white black cheek
on male
over eye spot (but in summer only) in Balkans. In
no
streaking farmland, villages, and wet places
below with willow thickets and tall trees.
faint streaking Seen in the UK
below J F M A M J J A S O N D
Length 14 –16cm (51⁄ 2 – 61⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 20 – 22cm (8 – 9in) Weight 20 – 25g (11⁄ 16 – 7⁄ 8 oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan 2 – 5 years Status Secure†
376
SPARROWS
Length 14cm (51⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 20 – 22cm (8 – 9in) Weight 19 – 25g (11⁄ 16 – 7⁄ 8 oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan 2 – 5 years Status Secure
377
SPARROWS
on head
thin white
wingbars
dull brown
body with
dark streaks
whitish
underside with
pale pale long, even,
spots crown brown tail, tipped grey stripes
on tail with whitish
spots
IN FLIGHT
sandy buff
streaks on
back
pale
wingbar
SIMILAR SPECIES
OCCURRENCE
CORN BUNTING HOUSE SPARROW 2; CIRL BUNTING 2; Breeds in Spain, Portugal, S France,
see p.403 see p.375 see p.399
plainer S Italy, and Balkans; typically in
head sharper dry, stony, or sandy areas with
face
plain cliffs or road cuttings; in rocky
tail larger plain places, gorges, and mountainous
below regions, present all year.
no tail tail edged
spots Seen in the UK
white
J F M A M J J A S O N D
Length 15 –17cm (6 – 61⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 21– 23cm (81⁄ 2 – 9in) Weight 20 – 28g (11⁄ 16 –1oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan 2 – 5 years Status Secure
378
FINCHES
Family Fringillidae
FINCHES
T HERE ARE TWO MAIN groups of finches, the
Fringilla species (Chaffinch and Brambling)
and the Cardueline finches. The Chaffinch
and Brambling are clearly closely related, their
different colours arranged in very similar patterns;
they have the same basic shape and behaviour,
and frequently mingle in winter.
The others, however, are a very diverse group.
Their shapes and behaviour are strongly
determined by their food. The crossbills have SOCIAL FEEDERS
remarkable beaks with crossed, hooked tips, Goldfinches feed on seeds that tend to be abundant in small areas, so
specially adapted to extracting seeds from conifer can afford to gather in large flocks.
cones. The Hawfinch
has a massive bill for as hips, while the Goldfinch and Siskin have
cracking open tough delicate, pointed bills for extracting seeds from
seeds and stones, such fruiting plants such as thistles and teazels and
as olive and cherry, from cones of trees such as larch and alder.
while the Bullfinch Some species, such as the redpolls, are acrobatic
has a softer, rounded and light enough to feed while perching on
bill for manipulating plants, while others are much less agile and feed
buds and soft fruits. while standing on the ground by pulling seed-
The Greenfinch has heads down with their bills.
a big bill, used for Most finches are gregarious but flock behaviour
WEED-EATERS
Twites feed on weed seeds and
dealing with strong varies: Chaffinches form loose aggregations, while
unusually feed seeds, not insects, seeds and for tearing Twites, Redpolls, and Siskins dash about in flight
to their young chicks. open tough fruits such in tight, coordinated parties.
THIRSTY WORK
Crossbills eat an abundance of dry seeds and
must frequently pause to drink from a puddle
before flying off to another conifer.
379
FINCHES
head with
Chaffinch blue-grey
head and
ochre-brown
smudges
dark patch in
bill
greenish two white front of eye
rump wingbars brown
back
dark wings
with yellowish
feather edges
MALE (WINTER)
MALE brownish pink
(SUMMER) cheeks and throat
IN FLIGHT
greyish olive from
white patch head to back
duller plumage
than male’s
pink underside, but similar
whiter on belly white bars
and under tail
dark tail
with broad
white sides
MALE
(SUMMER)
FEMALE
pale greyish
O ne of Europe’s most
abundant birds, the Chaffinch
forms an obvious species pair with the Brambling.The two often
underside
Length 14.5cm (53⁄ 4 in) Wingspan 25 – 28cm (10 –11in) Weight 19 – 23g (11⁄ 16 –13⁄ 16 oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan 2 – 5 years Status Secure
380
FINCHES
orange-buff shoulder
broad orange-
MALE
buff upper yellow
(WINTER) wingbar bill FEMALE
(WINTER)
pale chin
IN FLIGHT dark black
and throat
back head
bright yellow-
orange breast black
and shoulder back
dark spots
on flanks clean white belly
MALE
(WINTER)
MALE (SUMMER)
Length 14.5cm (53⁄ 4 in) Wingspan 25 – 28cm (10 –11in) Weight 19 – 23g (11⁄ 16 –13⁄ 16 oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan 2 – 5 years Status Secure
381
FINCHES
pale grey
head
whitish streaks
on dark wings
plain pale orange-
brown back
less pink-red pale
on chest cheek
MALE spot
(SUMMER)
dark MALE
tail with (WINTER) pink-red
white side chest
streaks short
black
legs MALE
IN FLIGHT
(SUMMER)
streaked brown
body tawny-buff
chest
white belly
FEMALE
They are ground feeders, while Redpolls and Siskins are mostly tree
feeders and Goldfinches feed on tall herbs; at times most finches can
be found together in mixed flocks. Linnets prefer waste ground with
plentiful seeding plants and bushes, or hedgerows, in which to nest.
VOICE Light, twittering, chattering flight call tidit tidititit, nasal
tseeoo; song musical, quite rich, varied warbling with chattering
intermixed, often chorus from flocks.
NESTING Neat little nest of stems and roots, lined with hair;
4–6 eggs; 2 or 3 broods;April–July. SWIRLING FLOCK
FEEDING Often feeds in groups all year, on seeds, taken from Linnets fly in tight, lively, bouncy flocks, with well-
ground; young fed on insects; rarely comes to gardens. coordinated movements.
Length 12.5 –14cm (5 – 51⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 21– 25cm (81⁄ 2 –10in) Weight 15 – 20g (9⁄ 16 –11⁄ 16 oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan 2 – 3 years Status Secure
382
FINCHES
Twite blackish
streaks on
grey bill
tan-brown
narrow pale bar back
and long whitish
streaks on wings yellow bill unmarked
tawny-buff face
and throat
MALE
dark (SUMMER)
pink
rump
buff underside
with black
streaks
lacks pink
on rump
MALE
(SUMMER)
FEMALE
Length 12.5 –14cm (5 – 51⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 21– 25cm (81⁄ 2 –10in) Weight 15 – 20g (9⁄ 16 –11⁄ 16 oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan 2 – 3 years Status Secure
383
FINCHES
IN FLIGHT
pale to
deep pink
on breast
buffish to whitish
FLIGHT: bouncy, bounding, with deep undulations; underside with
often in tight flocks. long dark streaks
T ypically a treetop bird, the Redpoll can also be found with Linnets
in weedy fields, or feeding on the ground under birches where vast
amounts of seeds have fallen. Most often, however, Redpoll groups feed,
MALE (SUMMER)
frequently with Siskins, in trees and move between treetops in noisy, well-
coordinated flocks, circling together and often returning to the same tree SUBSPECIES
after being disturbed.They may effectively “disappear” instantly on settling, whiter band
becoming quiet and unobtrusive as they feed. over eye
VOICE Flight call particularly hard, staccato chattering, metallic paler
chuchuchuchuchuchuch, loud
twangy tsooeee; song in flight
combines chatter with fast,
C. f. flammea
thin, reeling trill, trreeeeee. (Scandinavia); whiter wingbar
NESTING Cup of twigs
and grasses, lined with hair
or wool, in bush or tree;
4–6 eggs; 1 or 2 broods;
May–July.
FEEDING Mostly feeds in
trees, on seeds, such as birch, FEEDING FLOCK
alder, and larch, but also on The outer twigs of seeding birch trees can be decorated with Redpolls
or near ground in weedy hanging upside down and perched at all angles, reaching their
fields and under birch trees. preferred food.
Length 11–14.5cm (41⁄ 4 – 53⁄ 4 in) Wingspan 20 – 25cm (8 –10in) Weight 10 –14g (3⁄ 8 –1⁄ 2 oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan 2 – 3 years Status Secure†
384
FINCHES
duller wings
than adult’s
pale underside
ADULT
Length 12.5 –13cm (5in) Wingspan 21– 25cm (81⁄ 2 –10in) Weight 14 –17g (1⁄ 2 – 5⁄ 8 oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan 2 – 3 years Status Secure†
385
FINCHES
browner than
adult
MALE subtle streaks
on back and
along flanks yellow stripe
IN FLIGHT
JUVENILE
MALE
duller than (SUMMER)
male
yellow sides
to tail
Length 15cm (6in) Wingspan 25 – 27cm (10 –101⁄ 2 in) Weight 25 – 32g (7⁄ 8 –11⁄ 8 oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan 2 – 3 years Status Secure
386
FINCHES
broad yellow
bar on black
yellow wings
rump
black
yellow patch chin
on each side
of black tail
MALE
whitish belly
IN FLIGHT
paler and
looks like greyer, greyer head
washed-out than male’s lime-green
female to yellowish
breast
MALE
black streaks
on white
underside
JUVENILE FEMALE
A tree-seed feeder, the Siskin is particularly associated with conifers, FLIGHT: dashing, darting, undulating; often in
but also feeds in birch and alder trees in winter. It visits gardens tight-packed, coordinated flocks.
to eat peanuts and sunflower seeds, but is not usually a NUT BASKET FEEDER
ground-feeder. In winter, it associates in flocks, which Siskins come to gardens in
share a bounding, tight-packed sociability with the spring, when natural supplies
Redpoll. Males sometimes separate out from the of seed are low; they like the
flocks in spring to sing from treetops.When reddish peanuts especially.
feeding, these tiny finches are acrobatic, almost
tit-like in their actions.
VOICE Flight calls loud, whistled, clear, with
slightly squeaky or metallic quality, tsy-zee or tsu-ee;
feeding birds give low, hoarse buzz or purr; song mixes calls
and fast trills with hard twittering notes, from tree or in flight.
NESTING Tiny nest of twigs and stems, lined with plant down and hair, high
in tree; 4 or 5 eggs; 1 or 2 broods; May–July.
FEEDING Eats seeds of pine, larch, and various other trees.
Length 12cm (43⁄ 4 in) Wingspan 20 – 23cm (8 – 9in) Weight 12 –18g (7⁄ 16 – 5⁄ 8 oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan 2 – 3 years Status Secure
387
FINCHES
FEMALE
dark tail
IN FLIGHT
black and
yellow-
yellow
green
crossbars
breast
on wings
MALE
(WINTER) MALE
(SUMMER)
SIMILAR SPECIES
OCCURRENCE
SERIN 32; smaller bill black cap on male bigger Bird of mountain forests and
yellower rump;
see p.389 yellow streak adjoining high level pastures,
on wing and spruce woods at tree line, in
edges N Spain, S France, Alps, Corsica,
yellow
tail sides and Sardinia, rarely moving far
from breeding areas.
SISKIN 32;
yellower rump; GREENFINCH 32; Seen in the UK
see p.387 see p.386 J F M A M J J A S O N D
Length 11–12cm (41⁄ 4 – 43⁄ 4 in) Wingspan 18 – 20cm (7– 8in) Weight 12 –15g (7⁄ 16 – 9⁄ 16 oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan 2 – 3 years Status Secure
388
FINCHES
dark crescent
feathers often
fluffed up in
winter, for
around cheeks warmth
paler yellow
IN FLIGHT on face than
male
black-streaked
less yellow
forked flanks
below than
tail male
MALE
Length 11–12cm (41⁄ 4 – 43⁄ 4 in) Wingspan 18 – 20cm (7– 8in) Weight 12 –15g (7⁄ 16 – 9⁄ 16 oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan 2 – 3 years Status Secure
389
FINCHES
thick,
bright stubby
grey-white band
white bill
on dark wings pale grey
rump
back
dull brownish
back
MALE beige-grey
underside
vivid
red-pink
underside
no dark
cap
FEMALE
IN FLIGHT
same plumage
as female’s short dark
legs
Length 15cm (6in) Wingspan 22 – 26cm (9 –10in) Weight 21– 27g (3⁄ 4 –15⁄ 16 oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan 2 – 3 years Status Secure
390
FINCHES
large
head
broad buff-white
wingbar small black
bib
wing greyer grey
than male nape
MALE
(SUMMER)
FEMALE
Length 18cm (7in) Wingspan 29 – 33cm (111⁄ 2 –13in) Weight 48 – 62g (111⁄ 16 – 21⁄ 4 oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan 2 – 5 years Status Secure
391
FINCHES
Crossbill conspicuously
hooked bill
small dark
eye
dark wings, rarely with
narrow pale bars
brown greenish
wings body
MALE FEMALE
bright
pinkish
rump
IN FLIGHT MALE
streaked
below
rich red
rump
Length 16 cm (61⁄ 2in) Wingspan 27– 30cm (101⁄ 2 –12in) Weight 34 – 38g (13⁄ 16 –16⁄ 16oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan 2 – 5 years Status Secure
392
FINCHES
JUVENILE
two pale buff
wingbars short,
brown brown back rounded
wings bill
MALE
(SUMMER)
soft streaks
below
red
dull
rump
brown
back
IN FLIGHT
mid-brown back
hint of narrow
wingbars
pale underside with MALE
fine dark streaks (SUMMER)
FEMALE
Length 15cm ( 6in) Wingspan 22 – 26cm (9–10in) Weight 21– 27g (3⁄ 4 –15⁄ 16 oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan 2 – 3 years Status Secure†
393
BUNTINGS
Family Emberizidae
BUNTINGS
A BUNTING LOOKS MUCH like a finch: in
general, buntings are a little slimmer and
longer-tailed, and the structure of the bill is more
constant, with a small upper mandible fitting
neatly into a deeper, broader lower one that has
a curiously curved cutting edge.
Most buntings have dark tails with white sides,
but some, such as the Corn Bunting, have plainer
tails. They show a variety of head patterns. Males
are much like females in winter, with these
patterns obscured by dull feather edges, but the PRE-ROOST GATHERING
dull colours crumble away in spring to reveal Corn Buntings get together before flying to a roost in a thicket or reed-
striking breeding plumage colours. bed. Their flight calls often give them away.
Females and juveniles, lacking these patterns,
are more difficult to identify and some require Buntings, but a hard, sharp “tik” call concentrates
care. Habitat, location, and time of year may be attention, as the Reed Bunting does not have
useful. Calls also help: several much any corresponding call note. Songs are mostly
rarer species visit western brief, not especially musical, and repetitive,
Europe in the autumn and although some, such as the Yellowhammer’s
look rather like Reed all-summer-long song phrase, have a
particularly pleasing and evocative character.
Most buntings are seed-eaters outside the
breeding season and have suffered declines in
areas where intensive modern farming has
reduced the opportunities for birds to find
weed seeds in winter. The Cirl Bunting has
also declined with a lack of grasshoppers,
which it feeds to its young in summer.
DRINKING POOL
Corn Buntings and other species often have a
favourite pool where they drink.
SPRING PERFECTION
This male Reed Bunting is at his
best, having lost the dull feather
fringes of winter. His plumage
gradually turns paler in summer.
394
BUNTINGS
obscured
streaked whitish
underside cream stripe
over eye
IN FLIGHT
hint of pale
collar
MALE
(SUMMER)
cream and
pale red- black streaks
O ne of the more
common buntings,
especially in any damp
brown legs on back
bold black
or wet landscape, the tail with wide
Reed Bunting is easy white sides
FEMALE
to find and identify in
summer. Males sing monotonously from low perches long,
in the wetland vegetation. In winter, when males are far less striking, notched tail
Reed Buntings are not so easily identified and also spread widely
over all kinds of open ground and in thickets of willow, young
conifers, and farmland hedgerows.They visit gardens at times.
VOICE Typical call quite full, loud, high tseeu or psiu, high, thin, FLIGHT: slightly erratic, bounding, with flicking tail;
pure sweee; zi zi; song short, stereotyped, dives into cover with flourish.
simple, jangly phrase, two or three groups of
notes clearly separated, srip srip srip sea-sea-sea
stitip-itip-itipip.
NESTING Bulky nest of grass, sedge, and
other stems, lined with roots and hair, on or
close to ground in thick cover; 4 or 5 eggs;
2 broods;April–June.
FEEDING Mostly feeds on insects in WINTER DRABNESS
summer, seeds at other times, taken low in Brown feather tips in winter obscure the male’s
bushes or on ground, often on open grass head pattern. However, in spring, they wear
near water. away to reveal the full colours. OCCURRENCE
Breeds in C and N Europe except
SIMILAR SPECIES for Iceland; seen in winter only in
S Europe. Inhabits wet places with
white LAPLAND BUNTING 2 HOUSE SPARROW 2 reeds, sedge, rushes, willow
wingbars winter, similar to 32; similar to 32;
see p.402 see p.375 thickets, and fringes of lakes and
dumpier rivers; also drier heathy slopes and
duller heathland bogs. Sometimes visits
rusty wing
panel gardens in winter, especially in
hard weather.
CHAFFINCH 2 short black short tail Seen in the UK
similar to 2; see p.380 legs with no white J F M A M J J A S O N D
Length 15cm (6in) Wingspan 21– 26cm (81⁄ 2 –10in) Weight 15 – 22g (9⁄ 16 –13⁄ 16 oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan 2 – 3 years Status Secure
395
BUNTINGS
greyish
shoulders pale legs
MALE MALE
(WINTER) (SUMMER)
FEMALE
R ather like a small Reed Bunting (and requiring great care when
identifying migrants in autumn), the Little Bunting is a bird of
the far north. It breeds in the vast taiga zone with mixed coniferous FLIGHT: quick, weak, light flitting action with
and birch forest. Rarely, one or two may winter in western Europe. flicked tail and short bursts of wingbeats.
It is, like many buntings, very much a
SPRING MALE
ground bird most of the time, scuttling The rufous colouring over the entire
about on or very close to ground level even crown, face, and cheeks makes a
when disturbed. Generally rather quiet and summer adult eye-catching.
unobtrusive, it is easy to overlook.
VOICE Call short, sharp, ticking zik; song
short, high, mixed warble with clicking,
rasping, and whistled notes.
NESTING Nest of grass and moss, in
hollow on ground under bush; 4 or 5 eggs;
1 brood; May–June.
FEEDING Eats insects in summer; picks
seeds from ground in autumn.
SIMILAR SPECIES
OCCURRENCE
REED BUNTING 2 weak LAPLAND BUNTING Breeds in extreme NE Europe in
similar to 32; eye-ring juvenile; see p.402
see p.395 open spaces in conifer forest.
Autumn migrants rare on
bigger NW European coasts and islands,
rounded
bill even rarer inland, often in damp
rusty rump and places with weedy growth.
flank streaks
RUSTIC BUNTING 32; Seen in the UK
see p.452 short dark legs J F M A M J J A S O N D
Length 12 –13cm (43⁄ 4 – 5in) Wingspan 18 – 20cm (7– 8in) Weight 15 –18g (9⁄ 16 – 5⁄ 8oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan 2 – 3 years Status Secure†
396
BUNTINGS
pink bill
brighter buff
yellow eye-ring than female
green head
olive- MALE
buff (SUMMER)
rump yellow
moustache
JUVENILE
greyer than
orange juvenile
underside
MALE
(SUMMER) FEMALE
Length 15 –16cm (6 – 61⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 22 – 26cm (9 –10in) Weight 21– 27g (3⁄ 4 – 15⁄ 16 oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan 2 – 3 years Status Vulnerable†
397
BUNTINGS
Yellowhammer MALE
mixed rufous, buff,
and black back
(SUMMER)
yellow head with
rufous dusky stripes
rump
black and rufous
streaks on back
MALE FEMALE
(SPRING)
Length 16cm (61⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 23 – 29cm (9 –111⁄ 2 in) Weight 24 – 30g (7⁄ 8 –11⁄ 16 oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan 2 – 3 years Status Secure†
398
BUNTINGS
pale yellow
olive- underside
brown
rump
fine streaks
FEMALE on underside
black tail with
white sides
FEMALE
MALE
IN FLIGHT (SUMMER)
Length 15 –16cm (6 – 61⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 22 – 26cm (9 –10in) Weight 21– 27g (3⁄ 4 – 15⁄ 16 oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan 2 – 3 years Status Secure
399
BUNTINGS
MALE
grey head
(WINTER) and chest
IN FLIGHT orange-
brown
underside
less grey
on breast
than male
white-edged,
black tail
FEMALE
MALE (SUMMER)
Length 15cm (6in) Wingspan 22 – 26cm (9 –10in) Weight 21– 27g (3⁄ 4 – 15⁄ 16 oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan 2 – 3 years Status Vulnerable
400
BUNTINGS
white head
I n summer, Snow
Buntings are in the
far north or on the
white
underside
FEMALE
highest peaks, usually (WINTER)
where snow is still present.
In winter, they roam widely over
high ground, from ski resorts to barren, FLIGHT: bouncy, erratic, as if swept by wind, with
exposed mountainsides, but are more easily seen where they flurries of wingbeats and deep undulations; long wings.
winter on the coast. Flocks prefer shingle banks and sheltered,
muddy or gravelly marshes just inland of the beach, sometimes
mixed with other buntings, finches, and larks.Their complex
face and chest patterns may be confusing but the extensive
white areas seen when they fly are good clues.
VOICE Loud call deep, clear pyew or tsioo, frequent lighter,
trilling, rippling tiri-lil-il-il-il-ip; song short, clear, ringing phrase.
NESTING Nest of moss, lichen, and grass stems in cavity
among rocks; 4–6 eggs; 1 or 2 broods; May–July.
FEEDING Takes insects in summer, mainly seeds and strandline ATTRACTED BY SEEDS
invertebrates on beaches in winter. Snow Buntings can be attracted to patches of seeds scattered
on the ground at the edge of a shingle beach in winter.
SIMILAR SPECIES
OCCURRENCE
REED BUNTING 2 LAPLAND BUNTING Breeds very locally in N Scotland,
similar to 32 juvenile; see p.402
winter; Iceland, and N Scandinavia, on
see p.395 tundra or similar mountain top
streaked habitat. In winter, on coasts in S to
below N France and inland E Europe, at
fringes of breeding range.
Seen in the UK
J F M A M J J A S O N D
Length 16 –17cm (61⁄ 2 in) Wingspan 32 – 38cm (121⁄ 2 –15in) Weight 30 – 40g (11⁄ 16 –17⁄ 16 oz)
Social Flocks Lifespan 2 – 3 years Status Secure†
401
BUNTINGS
head
streaked
back
JUVENILE MALE (WINTER)
rufous panel
between white
black cap,
bars on wings pale stripe
face, and
curves
breast
whitish down from
underside behind eye
with black
IN FLIGHT streaks bright rusty
nape
MALE (SUMMER)
FLIGHT: quite direct, shallow undulations; bursts
of fast wingbeats between glides.
SIMILAR SPECIES
OCCURRENCE
darker crown RUSTIC BUNTING SNOW BUNTING 32; Breeds in N Scandinavia, in tundra
and cheek see p.452 see p.401
and high plateaux. In winter,
patch
mostly on salt marsh and short,
rusty rump wet grassland close to coasts,
around North Sea and Baltic.
big white
Quite rare inland.
duller REED BUNTING 2 area on
wingbars similar to 2; Seen in the UK
see p.395 wings
J F M A M J J A S O N D
Length 14 –15cm (51⁄ 2 – 6in) Wingspan 25 – 28cm (10 –11in) Weight 20 – 30g (11⁄ 16 –11⁄ 16 oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan 2 – 3 years Status Secure†
402
BUNTINGS
plain brown
tail
Length 18cm (7in) Wingspan 26 – 32cm (10 –121⁄ 2 in) Weight 38 – 55g (13⁄ 8 – 2oz)
Social Small flocks Lifespan 2 – 3 years Status Secure†
403
RARE SPECIES/DIVERS AND GREBES
RARE SPECIES
E urope has a remarkably wide variety of
habitats and extends over a huge
geographical spread from the Arctic to the
species every year, others not so regularly.
They are always, however, recorded in very
small numbers.
Mediterranean, from the Atlantic to the Black The birds on the following pages include
Sea.There are regular European species that some that are rare everywhere in Europe and
breed only in very small areas of this range always unpredictable, most of which one
(for example, the Pied Wheatear along the cannot really plan to see, and others that are
Black Sea shores), or appear only as migrants rare or restricted in range, but easily seen if
in small parts of the continent (for instance, one visits the right place
the Great Shearwater that regularly sweeps at the right time of year.
past the southwest of Ireland on its oceanic SUMMER SPECIAL
migrations).These are, nevertheless, seen every Sooty Shearwaters from the southern
year in the right areas. Some, for example, hemisphere appear off northwest
European coasts during their
Mediterranean Shearwaters that are numerous “winter” travels, in our
in the Mediterranean in summer, but rare summer and autumn.
elsewhere, are relatively numerous. Others,
with abbreviated treatment here, such as the
Pied-billed Grebe from North America, are
really rarities, properly belonging to the
avifauna of other continents.A few
individuals stray far from their breeding
range to turn up in Europe, some
Family Gaviidae Species Gavia adamsii Family Podicipedidae Species Podilymbus podiceps
Length 80–90cm (32–35in) Wingspan 1.35–1.5m (41⁄2 –5ft) Length 31–38cm (12–15in) Wingspan 50cm (20in)
404
PETRELS AND SHEARWATERS
Family Procellariidae Species Puffinus gravis Family Procellariidae Species Puffinus assimilis
Length 43–51cm (17–20in) Wingspan 1.05–1.22m (31⁄2 –4ft) Length 25–30cm (10–12in) Wingspan 58–67cm (23–26in)
Family Procellariidae Species Puffinus yelkouan Family Procellariidae Species Puffinus griseus
Length 34–39cm (131⁄2 –151⁄2 in) Wingspan 78–90cm (31–35in) Length 40–50cm (16–20in) Wingspan 0.95–1.1m (3–31⁄2 ft)
405
SHEARWATERS AND PETRELS/CORMORANTS AND PELICANS
Family Procellariidae Species Oceanites oceanicus Family Procellariidae Species Oceanodroma castro
Length 16–18cm (61⁄2 –7in) Wingspan 38–42cm (15–161⁄2 in) Length 19–21cm (71⁄2 –81⁄2 in) Wingspan 43–46cm (17–18in)
Family Pelecanidae Species Pelecanus onocrotalus Family Pelecanidae Species Pelecanus crispus
Length 1.4–1.75m (41⁄2 –53⁄4 ft) Wingspan 2.45–2.95m (8–93⁄4 ft) Length 1.6–1.8m (51⁄4 –6ft) Wingspan 2.7–3.2m (83⁄4 –10ft)
406
CORMORANTS AND PELICANS/EGRETS AND IBISES/WILDFOWL
Family Phalacrocoracidae Species Phalacrocorax pygmeus Family Ardeidae Species Egretta gularis
ADULT (SUMMER)
Length 45–55cm (18–22in) Wingspan 75–90cm (30–35in) Length 55–68cm (22–27in) Wingspan 88–112cm (35–44in)
Family Threskiornithidae Species Plegadis falcinellus Family Anatidae Species Anser caerulescens
Length 55–65cm (22–26in) Wingspan 88–105cm (35–41in) Length 65–75cm (26–30in) Wingspan 1.33–1.56m (41⁄4 –5ft)
407
WILDFOWL
Family Anatidae Species Anser erythropus Family Anatidae Species Branta ruficollis
ADULT
ADULT
striking black,
long white, and red
wingtips plumage
Length 56–66cm (22–26in) Wingspan 1.15–1.35m (33⁄4 –41⁄2 ft) Length 54–60cm (211⁄2–231⁄2 in) Wingspan 1.1–1.25m (31⁄2 –4ft)
Family Anatidae Species Tadorna ferruginea Family Anatidae Species Alopochen aegyptiacus
MALE ADULT
rust-orange narrow
body black
collar
large white
wing patch
long pink
legs
Length 58–70cm (23–28in) Wingspan 1.1–1.35m (31⁄2 –41⁄2 ft) Length 63–73cm (25–29in) Wingspan 1.1–1.3m (31⁄2 –41⁄4 ft)
408
WILDFOWL
Family Anatidae Species Aix galericulata Family Anatidae Species Aix sponsa
Length 41–49cm (16–191⁄2 in) Wingspan 65–75cm (26–30in) Length 43–51cm (17–20in) Wingspan 68–78cm (27–31in)
Family Anatidae Species Anas rubripes Family Anatidae Species Anas americana
dark overall
ADULT
Length 53–61cm (21–24in) Wingspan 80–90cm (32–35in) Length 48–56cm (19–22in) Wingspan 75–85cm (30–34in)
409
WILDFOWL
Family Anatidae Species Anas discors Family Anatidae Species Marmaronetta angustirostris
Length 37–41cm (141⁄2 –16in) Wingspan 55–65cm (22–26in) Length 39–42cm (151⁄2 –161⁄2 in) Wingspan 63–70cm (25–28in)
Family Anatidae Species Aythya nyroca Family Anatidae Species Aythya collaris
Length 38–42cm (15–161⁄2 in) Wingspan 60–67cm (23–261⁄2 in) Length 37–46cm (141⁄2 –18in) Wingspan 65–75cm (26–30in)
410
WILDFOWL
Family Anatidae Species Aythya affinis Family Anatidae Species Somateria fischeri
Length 38–45cm (15–18in) Wingspan 70cm (28in) Length 50–58cm (20–23in) Wingspan 80–95cm (32–37in)
Family Anatidae Species Somateria spectabilis Family Anatidae Species Polysticta stelleri
white
patch
MALE MALE
Length 55–63cm (22–25in) Wingspan 87–100cm (34–39in) Length 42–48cm (161⁄2 –19in) Wingspan 68–77cm (27–30in)
411
WILDFOWL
Family Anatidae Species Melanitta perspicillata Family Anatidae Species Netta rufina
Length 45–56cm (18–22in) Wingspan 85–95cm (34–37in) Length 53–57cm (21–221⁄2 in) Wingspan 85–90cm (34–35in)
Family Anatidae Species Histrionicus histrionicus Family Anatidae Species Bucephala islandica
Length 38–45cm (15–18in) Wingspan 63–70cm (25–28in) Length 42–53cm (161⁄2 –21in) Wingspan 67–82cm (26–32in)
412
WILDFOWL/BIRDS OF PREY
Family Anatidae Species Oxyura leucocephala Family Accipitridae Species Gypaetus barbatus
white head
diamond-shaped tail
ADULT
Length 43–48cm (17–19in) Wingspan 60–70cm (231⁄2 –28in) Length 1.05–1.25m (31⁄2 –4ft) Wingspan 2.35–2.75m (73⁄4 –9ft)
Family Accipitridae Species Torgos tracheliotus Family Accipitridae Species Aquila heliaca
dark
hindwings
saw-toothed
rear edge
Length 0.98–1.12m (31⁄4 –33⁄4 ft) Wingspan 2.5–2.8m (81⁄4 –91⁄4 ft) Length 70–80cm (28–32in) Wingspan 1.75–2.05m (53⁄4 –63⁄4 ft)
413
BIRDS OF PREY
Family Accipitridae Species Aquila adalberti Family Accipitridae Species Aquila pomarina
pale spots
on wings plain
brown
body
JUVENILE
JUVENILE
Length 72–85cm (28–34in) Wingspan 1.8–2.1m (6–7ft) Length 55–65cm (22–26in) Wingspan 1.43–1.68m (43⁄4 –51⁄2 ft)
Family Accipitridae Species Aquila clanga Family Accipitridae Species Aquila nipalensis
IMMATURE
Length 59–69cm (23–27in) Wingspan 1.53–1.77m (5–53⁄4ft) Length 62–74cm (24–29in) Wingspan 1.65–1.9m (51⁄2 –61⁄4 ft)
414
BIRDS OF PREY
Family Accipitridae Species Elanus caerulescens Family Accipitridae Species Circus macrourus
dark, wedge-shaped
ADULT wingtip patch
MALE
Length 31–36cm (12–14in) Wingspan 71–85cm (28–34in) Length 40–50cm (16–20in) Wingspan 0.97–1.18m (31⁄4 –33⁄4 ft)
Family Accipitridae Species Buteo rufinus Family Accipitridae Species Accipiter brevipes
grey orange
dark flanks cheeks underside
(female white
with dark
bars)
black-
tipped,
pointed
wings
MALE
Length 50–60cm (20–231⁄2 in) Wingspan 1.3–1.5m (41⁄4 –5ft) Length 30–37cm (12–141⁄2 in) Wingspan 63–76cm (25–30in)
415
BIRDS OF PREY
Family Falconidae Species Falco vespertinus Family Falconidae Species Falco eleonorae
paler wingtips
MALE
Length 28–34cm (11–131⁄2 in) Wingspan 65–76cm (26–30in) Length 37–42cm (141⁄2 –161⁄2 in) Wingspan 87–104cm (34–41in)
Family Falconidae Species Falco rusticolus Family Falconidae Species Falco cherrug
ADULT
(PALE FORM)
Length 53–63cm (21–25in) Wingspan 1.09–1.34m (31⁄2 –41⁄2 ft) Length 47–55cm (181⁄2 –22in) Wingspan 1.05–1.29m (31⁄2 –41⁄4 ft)
416
BRIDS OF PREY/GAMEBIRDS
Family Falconidae Species Falco biarmicus Family Tetraonidae Species Bonasa bonasia
grey rump
ADULT
MALE
Length 43–50cm (17–20in) Wingspan 95–105cm (371⁄2 –411⁄4 in) Length 34–39cm (131⁄2 –151⁄2 in) Wingspan 48–54cm (19–211⁄2 in)
Family Phasianidae Species Alectoris graeca Family Phasianidae Species Alectoris barbara
Length 33–36cm (13–14in) Wingspan 46–53cm (18–21in) Length 15–16cm (6–61⁄2 in) Wingspan 8–9cm (31⁄4 –31⁄2 in)
417
GAMEBIRDS
Family Phasianidae Species Alectoris chukar Family Phasianidae Species Turnix sylvatica
bold stripes
on flanks
ADULT
Length 32–35cm (121⁄2 –14in) Wingspan 47–52cm (181⁄2 –201⁄2 in) Length 15–17cm (6–61⁄2 in) Wingspan 25–30cm (10–12in)
Family Phasianidae Species Chrysolophus amherstiae Family Phasianidae Species Chrysolophus pictus
long red
feathers
MALE
Length 1.05–1.2m (31⁄2 –4ft) Wingspan 70–85cm (28–34in) Length 90–105cm (35–41in) Wingspan 65–75cm (26–30in)
418
CRAKES AND COOTS
Family Rallidae Species Porzana parva Family Rallidae Species Porzana pusilla
FEMALE
Length 17–19cm (61⁄2 –71⁄2 in) Wingspan 34–39cm (131⁄2 –151⁄2 in) Length 16–18cm (61⁄2 –7in) Wingspan 33–37cm (13–141⁄2 in)
Family Rallidae Species Fulica cristata Family Rallidae Species Porphyrio porphyrio
bold white
patch under tail
ADULT
Length 39–44cm (151⁄2 –171⁄2 in) Wingspan 75–85cm (30–34in) Length 45–50cm (18–20in) Wingspan 90–100cm (35–39in)
419
CRANES/WADERS
Family Gruidae Species Anthropoides virgo Family Burhinidae Species Burhinus senegalensis
ADULT
Length 85–100cm (34–39in) Wingspan 1.55–1.8m (5–6ft) Length 38–45cm (15–18in) Wingspan 76–88cm (30–35in)
Family Glareolidae Species Cursorius cursor Family Glareolidae Species Glareola nordmanni
ADULT
Length 24–27cm (91⁄2 –101⁄2 in) Wingspan 70cm (28in) Length 24–28cm (91⁄2 –11in) Wingspan 60–70cm (231⁄2 –28in)
420
WADERS
Family Glareolidae Species Glareola maldivarium Family Charadriidae Species Charadrius semipalmatus
narrow black
breast-band
Length 23–27cm (9–101⁄2 in) Wingspan 50–60cm (20–231⁄2 in) Length 16–17cm (61⁄2 in) Wingspan 33–38cm (13–15in)
Family Charadriidae Species Charadrius vociferus Family Charadriidae Species Charadrius mongolus
thick
blackish or dark black
long tail grey-green legs bill
Length 23–26cm (9–10in) Wingspan 45–50cm (18–20in) Length 17–19cm (61⁄2 –71⁄2 in) Wingspan 45–58cm (18–23in)
421
WADERS
Family Charadriidae Species Charadrius leschenaultii Family Charadriidae Species Charadrius asiaticus
long, dull
green legs
Length 19–22cm (71⁄2 –9in) Wingspan 57–64cm (221⁄2 –25in) Length 19–21cm (71⁄2 –81⁄2 in) Wingspan 57–64cm (221⁄2 –25in)
Family Charadriidae Species Pluvialis fulva Family Charadriidae Species Pluvialis dominica
black
short wingtips long wingtips ear-spot
beyond tertials long legs beyond tertials
JUVENILE white underparts
JUVENILE
Length 21–25cm (81⁄2 –10in) Wingspan 45–50cm (18–20in) Length 24–27cm (91⁄2 –101⁄2 in) Wingspan 50–55cm (20–22in)
422
WADERS
Family Charadriidae Species Vanellus spinosus Family Charadriidae Species Vanellus gregarius
ADULT
Length 25–28cm (10–11in) Wingspan 60–65cm (231⁄2 –26in) Length 27–30cm (101⁄2 –12in) Wingspan 60–65cm (231⁄2 –26in)
Family Charadriidae Species Vanellus leucurus Family Scolopacidae Species Limicola falcinellus
ADULT
Length 26–29cm (10–111⁄2 in) Wingspan 60cm (231⁄2 in) Length 15–18cm (6–7in) Wingspan 30–34cm (12–131⁄2 in)
423
WADERS
Family Scolopacidae Species Xenus cinereus Family Scolopacidae Species Calidris minutilla
streaked back
large, ADULT
upturned
bill pale legs tiny
bill
Length 22–25cm (9–10in) Wingspan 38–40cm (15–16in) Length 13–14cm (5–51⁄2 in) Wingspan 25–30cm (10–12in)
Family Scolopacidae Species Calidris subminuta Family Scolopacidae Species Calidris tenuirostris
pale legs
spotted
tapered underside
rear end short legs
ADULT (SUMMER)
Length 14–15cm (51⁄2 –6in) Wingspan 25–30cm (10–12in) Length 24–27cm (91⁄2–101⁄2in) Wingspan 40cm (16in)
424
WADERS
Family Scolopacidae Species Calidris bairdii Family Scolopacidae Species Calidris fuscicollis
black
short
legs
legs
Length 14–17cm (51⁄2 –61⁄2in) Wingspan 30–33cm (12–13in) Length 14–17cm (51⁄2 –61⁄2 in) Wingspan 30–33cm (12–13in)
Family Scolopacidae Species Calidris pusilla Family Scolopacidae Species Calidris maura
Length 13–15cm (5–6in) Wingspan 25–30cm (10–12in) Length 14–17cm (51⁄2 –61⁄2 in) Wingspan 28–31cm (11–12in)
425
WADERS
Family Scolopacidae Species Calidris ruficollis Family Scolopacidae Species Calidris acuminata
diffuse
breast-
JUVENILE band
short bill
Length 13–16cm (5–61⁄2 in) Wingspan 25–30cm (10–12in) Length 17–21cm (61⁄2 –81⁄2 in) Wingspan 40cm (16in)
Family Scolopacidae Species Calidris melanotos Family Scolopacidae Species Tryngites subruficollis
Length 19–23cm (71⁄2 –9in) Wingspan 38–44cm (15–171⁄2 in) Length 18–20cm (7–8in) Wingspan 35–37cm (14–141⁄2 in)
426
WADERS
Family Scolopacidae Species Tringa flavipes Family Scolopacidae Species Tringa melanoleuca
Length 23–25cm (9–10in) Wingspan 45–50cm (18–20in) Length 30–35cm (12–14in) Wingspan 53–60cm (21–231⁄2 in)
Family Scolopacidae Species Tringa solitaria Family Scolopacidae Species Actitis macularia
ADULT
Length 18–21cm (7–81⁄2 in) Wingspan 35–39cm (14–151⁄2 in) Length 18–20cm (7–8in) Wingspan 32–35cm (121⁄2 –14in)
427
WADERS
Family Scolopacidae Species Bartramia longicauda Family Scolopacidae Species Micropalama himantopus
ADULT (WINTER)
JUVENILE
long tail
Length 28–32cm (11–121⁄2 in) Wingspan 50–55cm (20–22in) Length 18–23cm (7–9in) Wingspan 37–42cm (141⁄2 –161⁄2 in)
Family Scolopacidae Species Limnodromus scolopaceus Family Scolopacidae Species Gallinago media
JUVENILE
Length 27–30cm (101⁄2 –12in) Wingspan 42–49cm (161⁄2 –191⁄2 in) Length 26–30cm (10–12in) Wingspan 43–50cm (17–20in)
428
WADERS/SKUAS, GULLS, AND TERNS
Family Scolopacidae Species Phalaropus tricolor Family Laridae Species Larus genei
Length 22–24cm (9–91⁄2 in) Wingspan 38–44cm (15–171⁄2 in) Length 37–42cm (141⁄2 –161⁄2 in) Wingspan 90–102cm (35–40in)
Family Laridae Species Larus philadelphia Family Laridae Species Larus delawarensis
ADULT
(SUMMER) yellowish
legs
Length 31–34cm (12–131⁄2 in) Wingspan 79–84cm (31–33in) Length 41–49cm (16–191⁄2 in) Wingspan 1.12–1.24m (3 3⁄4 –4ft)
429
SKUAS, GULLS, AND TERNS
Family Laridae Species Larus audouinii Family Laridae Species Larus ichthyaetus
ADULT
yellow legs
ADULT
grey legs (SUMMER)
Length 44–52cm (171⁄2 –201⁄2 in) Wingspan 1.17–1.28m (33⁄4 –41⁄4 ft) Length 58–67cm (23–26in) Wingspan 1.46–1.62m (43⁄4 –51⁄4 ft)
Family Laridae Species Larus sabini Family Laridae Species Larus pipixcan
ADULT
ADULT (WINTER)
black legs
(SUMMER)
Length 30–36cm (12–14in) Wingspan 80–87cm (32–34in) Length 32–36cm (121⁄2 –14in) Wingspan 80–87cm (32–34in)
430
SKUAS, GULLS, AND TERNS
Family Laridae Species Larus atricilla Family Laridae Species Pagophila eburnea
Length 36–41cm (14–16in) Wingspan 0.98–1.1m (31⁄4 –31⁄2 ft) Length 41–47cm (16–181⁄2 in) Wingspan 1–1.13m (31⁄4 –33⁄4 ft)
Family Laridae Species Rhodostethia rosea Family Sternidae Species Sterna maxima
black legs
Length 29–32cm (111⁄2 –121⁄2 in) Wingspan 73–80cm (29–32in) Length 42–49cm (161⁄2 –191⁄2 in) Wingspan 86–92cm (34–36in)
431
SKUAS, GULLS, AND TERNS
Family Sternidae Species Sterna bengalensis Family Sternidae Species Sterna fuscata
Length 33–40cm (13–16in) Wingspan 76–82cm (30–32in) Length 42–45cm (161⁄2 –18in) Wingspan 72–80cm (28–32in)
Family Sternidae Species Sterna anaethetus Family Sternidae Species Sterna forsteri
forked, white-
edged, dark tail
ADULT
Length 37–42cm (141⁄2 –161⁄2 in) Wingspan 65–72cm (26–28in) Length 33–36cm (13–14in) Wingspan 64–70cm (25–28in)
432
SKUAS, GULLS, AND TERNS/AUKS/SANDGROUSE
Family Sternidae Species Chlidonias leucopterus Family Alcidae Species Uria lomvia
ADULT (SUMMER)
Length 20–24cm (8–91⁄2 in) Wingspan 50–56cm (20–22in) Length 40–44cm (16–171⁄2 in) Wingspan 64–75cm (25–30in)
Family Pteroclididae Species Pterocles orientalis Family Pteroclididae Species Pterocles alchata
FEMALE
black underside
Length 30–35cm (12–14in) Wingspan 60–65cm (231⁄2 –26in) Length 28–32cm (11–121⁄2 in) Wingspan 55–63cm (22–25in)
433
CUCKOOS/PARROTS/OWLS
Family Cuculidae Species Clamator glandarius Family Cuculidae Species Coccyzus americanus
Length 35–39cm (14–151⁄2 in) Wingspan 55–65cm (22–26in) Length 29–32cm (111⁄2 –121⁄2 in) Wingspan 48–52cm (19–201⁄2 in)
Family Psittacidae Species Psittacula krameri Family Strigidae Species Strix nebulosa
Length 39–43cm (151⁄2 –17in) Wingspan 42–48cm (161⁄2 –19in) Length 59–68cm (23–27in) Wingspan 1.28–1.48m (41⁄4 –43⁄4 ft)
434
OWLS
Family Strigidae Species Strix uralensis Family Strigidae Species Nyctea scandiaca
Length 50–59cm (20–23in) Wingspan 1.03–1.24m (31⁄2 –4ft) Length 53–65cm (21–26in) Wingspan 1.25–1.5m (4–5ft)
Family Strigidae Species Surnia ulula Family Strigidae Species Glaucidium passerinum
Length 35–43cm (14–17in) Wingspan 69–82cm (27–32in) Length 15–19cm (6–71⁄2 in) Wingspan 32–39cm (121⁄2 –151⁄2 in)
435
NIGHTJARS/SWIFTS/WOODPECKERS AND WRYNECKS
Family Caprimulgidae Species Caprimulgus ruficollis Family Apodidae Species Apus caffer
pale
underwing
narrow,
forked tail
Length 30–34cm (12–131⁄2 in) Wingspan 60–65cm (231⁄2 –26in) Length 14–15cm (51⁄2 –6in) Wingspan 33–37cm (13–141⁄2 in)
Family Apodidae Species Apus affinis Family Picidae Species Pacus canus
MALE
square
tail
Length 12–13cm (43⁄4 –5in) Wingspan 32–34cm (121⁄2 –131⁄2 in) Length 27–30cm (101⁄2 –12in) Wingspan 45–50cm (18–20in)
436
WOODPECKERS AND WRYNECKS/LARKS
Family Picidae Species Dendrocopos syriacus Family Picidae Species Dendrocopos leucotos
FEMALE MALE
Length 23–25cm (9–10in) Wingspan 38–44cm (15–171⁄2 in) Length 25–28cm (10–11in) Wingspan 40–45cm (16–18in)
Family Picidae Species Picoides tridactylus Family Alaudidae Species Calandrella rufescens
Length 22–24cm (9–91⁄2 in) Wingspan 40cm (16in) Length 13–14cm (5–51⁄2 in) Wingspan 24–32cm (91⁄2 –121⁄2 in)
437
LARKS/PIPITS AND WAGTAILS
Family Alaudidae Species Chersophilus duponti Family Motacillidae Species Anthus richardi
very long
hind claws
Length 17–18cm (61⁄2 –7in) Wingspan 30cm (12in) Length 17–20cm (61⁄2 –8in) Wingspan 29–33cm (111⁄2 –13in)
Family Motacillidae Species Anthus godlewski Family Motacillidae Species Anthus hodgsoni
Length 15–17cm (6–61⁄2 in) Wingspan 28–30cm (11–12in) Length 14–15cm (51⁄2 –6in) Wingspan 24–27cm (91⁄2 –101⁄2 in)
438
PIPITS AND WAGTAILS/THRUSHES
Family Motacillidae Species Anthus gustavi Family Motacillidae Species Motacilla citreola
yellow
underside
MALE
(SPRING)
Length 14–15cm (51⁄2 –6in) Wingspan 23–25cm (9–10in) Length 16–17cm (61⁄2 in) Wingspan 24–27cm (91⁄2 –101⁄2 in)
Family Turdidae Species Luscinia luscinia Family Turdidae Species Cercotrichas galactotes
dull tail
Length 15–17cm (6–61⁄2 in) Wingspan 24–26cm (91⁄2 –10in) Length 15–17cm (6–61⁄2 in) Wingspan 22–27cm (9–101⁄2 in)
439
CHATS AND THRUSHES
Family Turdidae Species Tarsiger cyanurus Family Turdidae Species Oenanthe isabellina
FEMALE
Length 13–14cm (5–51⁄2 in) Wingspan 21–24cm (81⁄2 –91⁄2 in) Length 15–16cm (6–61⁄2 in) Wingspan 27–31cm (101⁄2 –12in)
Family Turdidae Species Catharus minimus Family Turdidae Species Zoothera dauma
black-edged,
olive-brown
buff spots
body
on back
AUTUMN
black
crescents
below
Length 15–17cm (6–61⁄2 in) Wingspan 28–32cm (11–121⁄2 in) Length 27–31cm (101⁄2 –12in) Wingspan 40–45cm (16–18in)
440
CHATS AND THRUSHES
Family Turdidae Species Zoothera sibirica Family Turdidae Species Turdus ruficollis
Length 20–21cm (8–81⁄2 in) Wingspan 34–36cm (131⁄2 –14in) Length 23–26cm (9–10in) Wingspan 37–40cm (141⁄2 –16in)
Family Turdidae Species Turdus obscurus Family Turdidae Species Turdus naumanni
Length 21–23cm (81⁄2 –9in) Wingspan 36–38cm (14–15in) Length 20–23cm (8–9in) Wingspan 36–39cm (14–151⁄2 in)
441
WARBLERS AND ALLIES
Family Sylviidae Species Sylvia hortensis Family Sylviidae Species Sylvia melanothorax
MALE spotted
underparts
MALE (SPRING)
Length 15–16cm (6–61⁄2 in) Wingspan 20–25cm (8–10in) Length 13cm (5in) Wingspan 15–18cm (6–7in)
Family Sylviidae Species Sylvia rueppelli Family Sylviidae Species Sylvia conspicillata
Length 13cm (5in) Wingspan 18–21cm (7–81⁄2 in) Length 12–13cm (43⁄4 –5in) Wingspan 14–17cm (51⁄2 –61⁄2 in)
442
WARBLERS AND ALLIES
Family Sylviidae Species Sylvia sarda Family Sylviidae Species Acrocephalus paludicola
MALE Warbler.
(SUMMER)
ADULT
Length 13–16cm (5–61⁄2 in) Wingspan 25–30cm (10–12in) Length 12–13cm (43⁄4 –5in) Wingspan 17–19cm (61⁄2 –71⁄2 in)
Family Sylviidae Species Locustella fluviatilis Family Sylviidae Species Locustella lanceolata
ADULT
rounded
edge of
wings
Length 15–16cm (6–61⁄2 in) Wingspan 8–9cm (31⁄4 –31⁄2 in) Length 12cm (43⁄4 in) Wingspan 15–16cm (6–61⁄2 in)
443
WARBLERS AND ALLIES
Family Sylviidae Species Acrocephalus dumetorum Family Sylviidae Species Acrocephalus agricola
Length 13–14cm (5–51⁄2 in) Wingspan 17–19cm (61⁄2 –71⁄2 in) Length 12–13cm (43⁄4 –5in) Wingspan 15–17cm (6–61⁄2 in)
Family Sylviidae Species Hippolais olivetorum Family Sylviidae Species Hippolais languida
Length 16–18cm (61⁄2 –7in) Wingspan 24–26cm (91⁄2 –10in) Length 14–15cm (51⁄2 –6in) Wingspan 20–23cm (8–9in)
444
WARBLERS AND ALLIES
Family Sylviidae Species Hippolais pallida Family Sylviidae Species Hippolais caligata
long, slim
tail
Length 12–14cm (43⁄4 –51⁄2 in) Wingspan 18–21cm (7–81⁄2 in) Length 11–12cm (41⁄4 –43⁄4 in) Wingspan 18–20cm (7–8in)
Family Sylviidae Species Phylloscopus fuscatus Family Sylviidae Species Phylloscopus swarzi
Length 11–12cm (41⁄4 –43⁄4 in) Wingspan 14–20cm (51⁄2 –8in) Length 12cm (43⁄4 in) Wingspan 15–20cm (6–8in)
445
WARBLERS AND ALLIES
Family Sylviidae Species Phylloscopus borealis Family Sylviidae Species Phylloscopus trochiloides
long wingtips
Length 12–13cm (43⁄4 –5in) Wingspan 16–22cm (61⁄2 –9in) Length 10cm (4in) Wingspan 15–21cm (6–81⁄2 in)
Family Sylviidae Species Phylloscopus inornatus Family Sylviidae Species Phylloscopus humei
two pale
wingbars
AUTUMN
Length 9–10cm (31⁄2 –4in) Wingspan 14–20cm (51⁄2 –8in) Length 9–10cm (31⁄2 –4in) Wingspan 14–20cm (51⁄2 –8in)
446
WARBLERS AND ALLIES/FLYCATCHERS
Family Sylviidae Species Phylloscopus proregulus Family Muscicapidae Species Ficedula parva
boldly striped
r-rt and tut; song high, sharp,
broad lower head rhythmic, falling away in
wingbar, purer cadence.
edged darker long
wings
JUVENILE
AUTUMN
white on tail
Length 9cm (31⁄2 in) Wingspan 12–16cm (43⁄4 –61⁄2 in) Length 11–12cm (41⁄4 –43⁄4 in) Wingspan 18–21cm (7–81⁄2 in)
Family Muscicapidae Species Ficedula albicollis Family Muscicapidae Species Ficedula semitorquata
MALE
(SUMMER)
Length 12–13cm (43⁄4 –5in) Wingspan 12–13cm (43⁄4 –5in) Length 12–13cm (43⁄4 –5in) Wingspan 12–13cm (43⁄4 –5in)
447
TITS AND ALLIES/NUTHATCHES
Family Paridae Species Parus cyanus Family Paridae Species Parus cinctus
grey wings
long tail
brown flanks
Length 12–13cm (43⁄4 –5in) Wingspan 19–21cm (71⁄2 –81⁄2 in) Length 13–14cm (5–51⁄2 in) Wingspan 20–21cm (8–81⁄2 in)
Family Paridae Species Parus lugubris Family Sittidae Species Sitta whiteheadi
FEMALE
Length 13–14cm (5–51⁄2 in) Wingspan 21–23cm (81⁄2 –9in) Length 11–12cm (41⁄4 –43⁄4 in) Wingspan 21–22cm (81⁄2 –9in)
448
NUTHATCHES/SHRIKES/CROWS
Family Sittidae Species Sitta neumayer Family Laniidae Species Lanius isabellinus
IMMATURE
Length 14–15cm (51⁄2 –6in) Wingspan 23–25cm (9–10in) Length 16–18cm (61⁄2 –7in) Wingspan 26–28cm (10–11in)
Family Laniidae Species Lanius nubicus Family Corvidae Species Cyanopica cyanus
orange
flanks
MALE
Length 17–18cm (61⁄2 –7in) Wingspan 24–26cm (91⁄2 –10in) Length 31–35cm (12–14in) Wingspan 38–40cm (15–16in)
449
CROWS/STARLINGS/NORTH AMERICAN WARBLERS
Family Corvidae Species Perisoreus infaustus Family Sturnidae Species Sturnus roseus
rust-orange
tail sides
Length 26–29cm (10–111⁄2 in) Wingspan 40–46cm (16–18in) Length 19–22cm (71⁄2 –9in) Wingspan 37–40cm (141⁄2 –16in)
Family Vireonidae Species Vireo olivaceus Family Parulidae Species Dendroica striata
Length 14cm (51⁄2 in) Wingspan 23–25cm (9–10in) Length 12–13cm (43⁄4 –5in) Wingspan 15cm (6in)
450
NORTH AMERICAN WARBLERS/FINCHES
Family Parulidae Species Dendroica coronata Family Fringillidae Species Carduelis hornemanni
broad
two white unmarked wingbar
wingbars under tail
white
underparts
IMMATURE (AUTUMN) MALE
Length 12–13cm (43⁄4 –5in) Wingspan 15cm (6in) Length 12–14cm (43⁄4 –51⁄2 in) Wingspan 21–27cm (81⁄2 –101⁄2 in)
Family Fringillidae Species Loxia leucoptera Family Fringillidae Species Loxia pytyopsittacus
Length 16cm (61⁄2 in) Wingspan 26–29cm (10–111⁄2 in) Length 16–18cm (61⁄2 –7in) Wingspan 30–33cm (12–13in)
451
FINCHES/BUNTINGS
Family Fringillidae Species Pinicola enucleator Family Fringillidae Species Loxia scotica
Length 19–22cm (71⁄2 –9in) Wingspan 30–35cm (7–81⁄2 in) Length 16–17cm (61⁄2 in) Wingspan 27–37cm (101⁄2 –141⁄2 in)
Family Passeridae Species Montifringilla nivalis Family Emberizidae Species Emberiza rustica
MALE (AUTUMN)
rufous rump
Length 17–19cm (61⁄2 –71⁄2 in) Wingspan 34–38cm (131⁄2 –15in) Length 12–13cm (43⁄4 –5in) Wingspan 14–17cm (51⁄2 –61⁄2 in)
452
BUNTINGS
Family Emberizidae Species Emberiza caesia Family Emberizidae Species Emberiza leucocephalus
MALE
Length 14–15cm (51⁄2 –6in) Wingspan 23–26cm (9–10in) Length 16–17cm (61⁄2 in) Wingspan 26–30cm (10–12in)
Family Emberizidae Species Emberiza melanocephala Family Emberizidae Species Emberiza aureola
FEMALE
Length 16–17cm (61⁄2 in) Wingspan 26–30cm (10–12in) Length 15–16cm (6–61⁄2 in) Wingspan 8–9cm (31⁄4 –31⁄2 in)
453
BUNTINGS/BOBOLINK
Family Emberizidae Species Pheucticus ludovicianus Family Emberizidae Species Junco hyemalis
MALE
Length 18–20cm (7–8in) Wingspan 30–32cm (12–121⁄2 in) Length 14cm (51⁄2 in) Wingspan 25–30cm (10–12in)
Family Emberizidae Species Zonotrichia albicollis Family Icteridae Species Dolichonyx oryzivorus
long,
narrow
tail
ADULT (AUTUMN)
Length 15–17cm (6–61⁄2 in) Wingspan 20–25cm (8–10in) Length 16–18cm (61⁄2 –7in) Wingspan 30cm (12in)
454
VAGRANTS
VAGRANTS
T he list that follows consists of birds that
occur only very rarely in Europe, known
as vagrants or accidentals. It also looks a little
accepted that even small birds can, with a
following wind, survive a flight across the
Atlantic, although they probably do not
further beyond Europe, to list those birds survive long afterwards. Larger species,
whose normal range is the Middle East and however, such as some wildfowl, may live for
North Africa, so covering a total faunal area years in Europe and a few (that have been
known as the Western Palearctic. trapped, ringed, and released in order to
Vagrants to Europe arrive from Asia and follow their movements) have even returned
North America (and fewer from Africa). to North America in subsequent years.These
Western Europe, especially the UK, is well are not, in any true sense, European birds, but
placed to receive birds that are blown off are included here to complete the range of
course from eastern North America and cross species that have been recorded. Many appear
the Atlantic. It was thought that such birds again, others may not: by their nature these
cross the ocean on board ship, but it is now “accidentals” are unpredictable.
Ostrich
Ostrich Struthio camelus Ratites/Struthidae Vagrant in North Africa, from
southern Africa
Albatrosses
Shy Albatross Diomedea cauta Albatrosses/Diomedeidae Large seabird from southern
oceans
Yellow-nosed Albatross Diomedea Albatrosses/Diomedeidae Large seabird from southern
chlororhynchos oceans
Black-browed Albatross Diomedea Albatrosses/Diomededae Long-winged seabird from
melanophris South Atlantic
Wandering Albatross Diomedea exulans Albatrosses/Diomedeidae Large seabird from southern
oceans
455
VAGRANTS
Cape Gannet Morus capensis Gannets/Sulidae Black and white gannet from
southern Africa
Double-crested Phalacrocorax auritus Cormorants/Phalacrocoracidae Large black waterbird, vagrant
Cormorant in UK, from North America
Intermediate Egret Egretta intermedia Herons/Ardeidae White egret from Africa, Asia
Snowy Egret Egretta thula Herons/Ardeidae White egret from North America
Storks
Yellow-billed Stork Mycteria ibis Storks/Ciconiidae White stork with red mask,
vagrant in Middle East, from Africa
456
VAGRANTS
Ibises
Bald Ibis Geronticus eremita Ibises/Threskiornithidae All-dark ibis, rare breeder in
North Africa
Wildfowl
White-faced Dendrocygna viduata Wildfowl/Anatidae Large, noisy duck, vagrant in
Whistling Duck North Africa, from southern
Africa
Lesser Whistling Duck Dendrocygna javanica Wildfowl/Anatidae Small duck from Africa
Bar-headed Goose Anser indicus Wildfowl/Anatidae Pale grey goose from Asia
Birds of Prey
Crested Honey Buzzard Pernis ptilorhyncus Hawks/Accipitridae Medium-sized bird of prey,
vagrant in Middle East, from Asia
American Swallow- Elanoides forficatus Hawks/Accipitridae Fork-tailed kite from North
tailed Kite America
Bald Eagle Haliaeetus Hawks/Accipitridae Massive eagle from North
leucocephalus America
Pallas's Fish Eagle Haliaeetus leucoryphus Hawks/Accipitridae Huge eagle from Asia
457
VAGRANTS
Gamebirds
Caucasian Grouse Tetrao mlokosiewiczi Grouse/Tetraonidae Sleek black grouse, in Middle
East
Caspian Snowcock Tetraogallus caspius Gamebirds/Phasianidae Large mountain grouse, in
Middle East
Caucasian Snowcock Tetraogallus caucasicus Gamebirds/Phasianidae Large mountain grouse, in
Middle East
Double-spurred Francolin Francolinus bicalcaratus Gamebirds/Phasianidae Brown gamebird, in North Africa
Cranes
Hooded Crane Grus monacha Cranes/Gruidae Dark-headed crane from Asia
Siberian White Crane Grus leucogeranus Cranes/Gruidae Large crane from Asia
Bustards
458
VAGRANTS
Waders
Painted Snipe Rostratula Waders/Scolopacidae Snipe-like wader from Africa
benghalensis
Crab Plover Dromas ardeola Plovers/Charadriidae Heavy-billed, black and white
wader, in Middle East
Egyptian Plover Pluvianus aegyptius Plovers/Charadriidae Small wader from Africa
American Little Tern Sterna antillarum Terns/Sternidae Little Tern from North America
Crested Tern Sterna bergii Terns/Sternidae Large tern from Indian Ocean
459
VAGRANTS
Skimmers
African Skimmer Rynchops flavirostris Skimmers/Rhynchopidae Long-billed bird, vagrant in
Middle East, from Africa
Auks
Ancient Murrelet Synthliboramphus Auks/Alcidae Small, Little Auk-like seabird
antiquus from N Pacific
Parakeet Auklet Cyclorrhynchus Auks/Alcidae Small auk-like seabird from
psittacula N Pacific
Crested Auklet Aethia cristatella Auks/Alcidae Small Puffin-like seabird from
N Pacific
Tufted Puffin Lunda cirrhata Auks/Alcidae Large dark puffin from N Pacific
Sandgrouse
Pallas's Sandgrouse Syrrhaptes paradoxus Sandgrouse/Pterocliidae Partridge-like bird, vagrant in
W Europe, from Asia
Lichtenstein's Sandgrouse Pterocles lichtensteinii Sandgrouse/Pteroclididae Small, barred sandgrouse, in
Middle East
Spotted Sandgrouse Pterocles senegallus Sandgrouse/Pteroclididae Large pale sandgrouse, in
Middle East
Crowned Sandgrouse Pterocles coronatus Sandgrouse/Pteroclididae Pale sandgrouse, in Middle East
460
VAGRANTS
Owls
Pale Scops Owl Otus brucei Owls/Strigidae Small eared owl, rare in
Middle East
Brown Fish Owl Ketupa zeylonensis Owls/Strigidae Large, eared owl, in Middle East
Hume's Tawny Owl Strix butleri Owls/Strigidae Small, pale desert owl, in North
Africa and Middle East
Marsh Owl Asio capensis Owls/Strigidae Small Short-eared Owl-like bird,
in North Africa
Nightjars
Nubian Nightjar Caprimulgus nubicus Nightjars/Caprimulgidae Small nightjar, rare in Middle East
Egyptian Nightjar Caprimulgus aegyptius Nightjars/Caprimulgidae Pale nightjar, rare in Middle East
Swifts
White-throated Needletail Hirundapus caudacutus Swifts/Apodidae Large swift from Asia
Chimney Swift Chaetura pelagica Swifts/Apodidae Dumpy swift from North America
Kingfishers
Belted Kingfisher Ceryle alcyon Giant Kingfishers/ Big kingfisher from North
Cerylidae America
Pied Kingfisher Ceryle rudis Giant Kingfishers/ Large, black and white kingfisher,
Cerylidae in Middle East
White-throated Kingfisher Halcyon smyrnensis Halcyon Kingfishers/ Big, red-billed kingfisher, in
Dacelonidae Middle East
Bee-Eaters
Blue-cheeked Bee-eater Merops persicus Bee-eaters/Meropidae Greenish bee-eater from
Middle East
Little Green Bee-eater Merops orientalis Bee-eaters/Meropidae Small, bright bee-eater, in
Middle East
Rollers
Indian Roller Coracias benghalensis Rollers/Coracidae Colourful roller, vagrant in Middle
East, from South Asia
461
VAGRANTS
Woodpeckers
Northern Flicker Colaptes auratus Woodpeckers/Picidae Colourful woodpecker from
North America
Levaillant's Green Picus vaillantii Woodpeckers/Picidae Large, scarce green woodpecker,
Woodpecker in North Africa
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker Sphyrapicus varius Woodpeckers/Picidae Small woodpecker from
North America
Larks
Hoopoe Lark Alaemon alaudipes Larks/Alaudidae Large pale lark, in Middle East
Thick-billed Lark Rhamphocoris clotbey Larks/Alaudidae Heavy desert lark, in North Africa
Rock Martin Ptyonoprogne fuligula Swallows/Hirundinidae Small, pale Crag Martin-like bird,
in Middle East
Pipits
Buff-bellied Pipit Anthus rubescens Pipits and wagtails/ Dark-legged pipit from North
Motacillidae America
Berthelot's Pipit Anthus berthelotii Pipits and wagtails/ Small pipit, in Canary Islands
Motacillidae and Madeira
Long-billed Pipit Anthus similis Pipits and wagtails/ Large, pale, mountainside pipit,
Motacillidae in Middle East
462
VAGRANTS
Shrikes
Black-crowned Tchagra Tchagra senegala Shrikes/Laniidae Boldly patterned shrike, in North
Africa
Brown Shrike Lanius cristatus Shrikes/Lanidae Dull shrike from Asia
Bulbuls
White-eared Bulbul Pycnonotus leucotis Bulbuls/Pycnonotidae Black and brown bulbul, vagrant
in Middle East, from Asia
Waxwings
Cedar Waxwing Bombycilla cedrorum Waxwings/Bombycillidae Yellow-bellied waxwing, vagrant
in UK, from North America
Grey Hypocolius Hypocolius ampelinus Waxwings/Bombycillidae Shrike-like bird, in Middle East
Mockingbirds
Northern Mockingbird Mimus polyglottus Mockingbirds/Mimidae Thrush-like bird from
North America
Brown Thrasher Toxostoma rufum Mockingbirds/Mimidae Rusty, thrush-like bird from
North America
Catbird Dumetella carolinensis Mockingbirds/Mimidae Chat-like bird from North
America
Accentors
Black-throated Accentor Prunella atrogularis Accentors/Prunellidae Dunnock-like bird, vagrant in
Middle East, from Siberia
Siberian Accentor Prunella montanella Accentors/Prunellidae Dunnock-like bird from Siberia
463
VAGRANTS
Babblers
Fulvous Babbler Turdoides fulvus Babblers/Timaliidae Thrush-like bird, in North Africa
Arabian Babbler Turdoides squamiceps Babblers/Timaliidae Pale, thrush-like bird, in Middle East
464
VAGRANTS
Flycatchers
Brown Flycatcher Muscicapa dauurica Flycatchers/Muscicapidae Plain flycatcher from Asia
Nuthatches
Red-breasted Nuthatch Sitta canadensis Nuthatches/Sittidae Small, stripe-headed nuthatch
from North America
Eastern Rock Nuthatch Sitta tephronota Nuthatches/Sittidae Large nuthatch, in Middle East
Sunbirds
Nile Valley Sunbird Anthreptes metallicus Sunbirds/Nectariniidae Tiny, dark nectar-eater, in
Middle East
Palestine Sunbird Nectarinia osea Sunbirds/Nectariniidae Long-tailed nectar-eater, in
Middle East
Crows
Fan-tailed Raven Corvus rhipidurus Crows/Corvidae Short-tailed raven, in North Africa
and Middle East
Brown-necked Raven Corvus ruficollis Crows/Corvidae Somewhat thinner-billed raven, in
North Africa and Middle East
House Crow Corvus splendens Crows/Corvidae Grey and black crow, introduced
in Middle East from India
Daurian Jackdaw Corvus dauuricus Crows/Corvidae Pied jackdaw from Asia
465
VAGRANTS
Starlings
Tristram's Starling Onychognathus Starlings/Sturnidae Dark, red-winged starling, in
tristramii Middle East
Tanagers
Scarlet Tanager Piranga olivacea Tanagers/Thraupidae Large finch from North America
Buntings
Rufous-sided Towhee Pipilo Buntings/Emberizidae Thickset finch-like bird from
erythrophthalmus North America
Lark Sparrow Chondestes grammacus Buntings/ Emberizidae Streaky-headed bunting-like bird,
vagrant in UK from North America
Fox Sparrow Passerella iliaca Buntings/Emberizidae Rufous bunting from North
America
Song Sparrow Melospiza melodia Buntings/Emberizidae Streaky bunting from North
America
White-crowned Sparrow Zonotrichia leucophrys Buntings/Emberizidae Sparrow-like bird from North
America
Black-faced Bunting Emberiza Buntings/Emberizidae Dark bunting from Asia
spodocephala
Cinnamon-breasted Emberiza tahapisi Buntings/Emberizidae Dark-coloured bunting from
Bunting Africa
Grey-necked Bunting Emberiza buchanani Buntings/Emberizidae Slender bunting from Asia
Pallas's Reed Bunting Emberiza pallasi Buntings/Emberizidae Small bunting from Asia
466
VAGRANTS
Finches
Blue Chaffinch Fringilla teydea Finches/Fringillidae Large blue finch, endemic to
Canary Islands
Canary Serinus canaria Finches/Fringillidae Greenish finch, endemic to
Canary Islands
Red-fronted Serin Serinus pusillus Finches/Fringillidae Small finch, in Middle East
Sparrows
Dead Sea Sparrow Passer moabiticus Sparrows/Passeridae Small, colourful sparrow, in
Middle East
Desert Sparrow Passer simplex Sparrows/Passeridae Pale, dark-billed sparrow, in
Middle East
Hill Sparrow Carpospiza Sparrows/Passeridae Pale sparrow, in Middle East
brachydactyla
Chestnut-shouldered Gymornis xanthocollis Sparrows/Passeridae Pale sparrow, in Middle East
Sparrow
467
GLOSSARY
GLOSSARY
Many of the terms defined here are • FAMILY A category in classification, • RACE See SUBSPECIES.
illustrated in the general introduction grouping species or genera that are • RARE Found in small numbers or
(pp. 8 –53). For anatomical terms see also closely related; ranked at a higher level very low densities, although not
pp.10 –11. than the genus. necessarily at risk.
• FLIGHT FEATHER Any one of the • SCAPULAR Any one of a group of
• ADULT A fully mature bird, able to long feathers on the wing (primaries and feathers on the shoulder, forming a more
breed, showing the final plumage pattern secondaries). or less oval patch each side of the back, at
that no longer changes with age. • FOREWING The front part of a the base of the wing.
• BARRED With marks crossing the wing, including the outer primaries, • SECONDARY Any one of the long
body, wing, or tail. primary coverts, and secondary coverts. flight feathers forming the trailing edge
• BROOD Young produced from a • GAPE A bird’s mouth, or the angle at of the inner wing, growing from the ulna
single clutch of eggs incubated together. the base of the bill. or “arm”.
• CALL Vocal sound often • GENUS (pl. GENERA) A category • SECURE The population is under no
characteristic of a particular species, in classification: a group of closely related current threat.
communicating a variety of messages. species, whose relationship is recognized • SONG Vocalization with character
• COLONY A group of nests of a by the same first name in the scientific particular to the individual species, used
highly social species, especially among terminology, e.g. Larus in Larus fuscus. to communicate a claim to a breeding
seabirds but also others such as the Sand • HINDWING The rear part of the territory and attract a mate.
Martin and Rook. wing, including the secondary feathers, • SONG-FLIGHT A special flight,
• COVERT A small feather in a well- especially when it has a distinctive colour often with a distinctive pattern,
defined tract, on the wing or at the base or pattern. combined with a territorial song.
of the tail, covering the base of the larger • HYBRID The result of cross- • SPECIES A group of living organisms,
flight feathers. breeding between two species; usually individuals of which can interbreed to
• CRYPTIC Describes plumage pattern infertile. Rare in the wild. produce fertile young, but do not
and colours that make a bird difficult to • IMMATURE Not yet fully adult or normally breed, or cannot produce fertile
see in its favoured habitat. able to breed; there may be several young, with a different species.
• DABBLE To feed in shallow water, identifiable plumages during immaturity • SPECULUM A colourful patch on
with rapid movements of the bill, sieving but many small birds are mature by the a duck’s hindwing, formed by the
water through fine comb-like teeth to first spring after they have fledged. secondary feathers.
extract food. • INNER WING The inner part of the • STREAKED With small marks that
• DECLINING Populations undergoing wing, comprising the secondaries and run lengthwise along the body.
a steady decline over a number of years. rows of coverts (typically marginal, lesser, • SUBSPECIES A race; a recognizable
• DIMORPHIC Having two forms: median, and greater coverts). group within a species, isolated
sexually dimorphic means that the male • JUVENILE A bird in its first geographically but able to interbreed
and female of a species look different; plumage, that in which it makes its first with others of the same species.
otherwise indicates two colour forms. flight, before its first moult in the autumn. • SUPERCILIARY STRIPE A stripe
• DRUMMING Sound made by • LEK A gathering of birds at which of colour running above the eye, like an
woodpeckers with rapid beats of the bill males display communally, with mock eyebrow.
against a hard object, or by a snipe, fighting, while females choose which one • TERTIAL Any one of a small group
diving through the air with vibrating to mate with. of feathers, sometimes long and obvious,
tail feathers. • LOCALIZED More than 90 per cent at the base of the wing adjacent to the
• EAR TUFT A bunch of feathers on of the population occurs at ten sites or less. inner secondaries.
the head of an owl, capable of being • MOULT The shedding and renewing • UNDERWING The underside of a
raised as a visual signal and perhaps to of feathers in a systematic way; most birds wing, usually visible only in flight or
assist camouflage. have a partial moult and a complete when a bird is preening.
• ECLIPSE The plumage of male moult each year. • UPPERWING The upperside of the
ducks that is adopted during the summer, • MIGRANT A species that spends wing, clearly exposed in flight but often
when they moult and become flightless part of the year in one geographical area mostly hidden when the bird is perched.
for a short time. and part in another, moving between the • VAGRANT An individual bird that
• ENDANGERED Found in very two on a regular basis. (See also p.26.) has strayed beyond the usual geographic
small numbers, in a very small area or in • ORDER A category in classification: range of its species.
a very restricted and declining habitat, so families grouped to indicate their close • VENT The area of feathers between
that the future security of the species is relationship or common ancestry; usually the legs and the undertail coverts.
in doubt. a more uncertain or speculative grouping • VULNERABLE Potentially at risk
• ESCAPEE A bird that has escaped than a family. due to a dependence on a restricted
into the wild from a collection of some • OUTER WING The outer half of habitat or range, or to small numbers.
kind, such as a zoo or wildlife park. the wing, comprising the primaries, their • WINGPIT A group of feathers – the
• EYE PATCH An area of colour coverts, and the alula, or bastard wing axillaries – located at the base of the
around the eye, often in the form of a (the “thumb”). underwing.
“mask”, broader than an eye-stripe. • ORBITAL RING A thin, bare, fleshy • WINGBAR A line of colour
• EYE-RING A more or less circular ring around the eye, sometimes with a produced by a tract of feathers or feather
patch of colour, usually narrow and well- distinctive colour. tips, crossing the closed wing and
defined, around the eye. • PRIMARY Any one of the long running along the spread wing.
• EYE-STRIPE A stripe of distinctive feathers, or quills, forming the tip and • YOUNG An imprecise term to
colour running in front of and behind trailing edge of the outer wing, growing describe immature birds; often meaning
the eye. from the “hand”. juveniles or nestlings.
468
INDEX
INDEX
Anas cont. Arctic Redpoll 451 bitterns 74
A americana 409 Arctic Skua 204 Black Duck 409
aberrations 19 clypeata 104 Arctic Warbler 446 Black Grouse 149
Accentor,Alpine 293 crecca 106 Ardea Black Guillemot 228
accentors 288 crecca carolinensis 106 cinerea 82 Black Kite 131
Accipiter discors 410 purpurea 83 Black Redstart 299
brevipes 415 penelope 105 Ardeidae 74, 407 Black Stork 86
gentilis 139 platyrhynchos 101 Ardeola ralloides 79 Black Tern 224
nisus 138 querquedula 107 Arenaria interpres 183 White-winged 433
Accipitridae 120, 413 rubripes 409 Asio Black Vulture 123
Accipitriformes 121 strepera 102 flammeus 243 Black Wheatear 302
Acrocephalus Anatidae 89, 407 otus 242 Black Woodpecker
agricola 444 anatomy 10–11 Athene noctua 244 258
arundinaceus 326 Anser Audouin’s Gull 430 Black-backed Gull,
dumetorum 444 albifrons 93 Auk, Little 226 Great 212
melanopogon 323 albifrons flavirostris 93 auks 201, 226, 433 Lesser 211
paludicola 443 anser 96 Avocet 165 Black-bellied
palustris 325 brachyrhynchus 95 avocets 163 Sandgrouse 433
schoenobaenus 322 caerulescens 407 Aythya Black-headed Bunting
scirpaceus 324 erythropus 408 affinis 411 453
Actitis fabalis 94 collaris 410 Black-headed Gull 206
hypoleucos 184 fabalis rossicus 94 ferina 108 Black-necked Grebe
macularia 427 Anseriformes 90 fuligula 110 63
Aegithalidae 341 Anthropoides virgo 420 marila 109 Black-shouldered Kite
Aegithalos caudatus 348 Anthus nyroca 410 415
Aegypius monachus 123 campestris 279 Azure Tit 448 Black-tailed Godwit
Aix cervinus 284 Azure-winged Magpie 191
galericulata 409 godlewski 438 449 Black-throated Diver
sponsa 409 gustavi 439 57
Alauda arvensis 265 hodgsoni 438 B Black-winged
Alaudidae 264, 437 petrosus 281 Baillon’s Crake 419 Pratincole 420
albatrosses 64 pratensis 282 Baird’s Sandpiper 425 Black-winged Stilt 166
Alca torda 230 richardi 438 Bar-tailed Godwit 192 Blackbird 311
Alcedinidae 252 spinoletta 280 Barn Owl 246 Blackcap 316
Alcedo atthis 253 trivialis 283 Barnacle Goose 98 Blackpoll Warbler 450
Alcidae 201, 433 Apodidae 248, 436 Barred Warbler 315 Blue Rock Thrush 305
Alectoris Apodiformes 249 Barrow’s Goldeneye 412 Blue Tit 344
barbara 417 Apus Bartramia longicauda 428 Blue-winged Teal 410
chukar 418 affinis 436 Bean Goose 94 Bluetail, Red-flanked
graeca 417 apus 249 Bearded Tit 349 440
rufa 150 caffer 436 Bee-eater 254 Bluethroat 297
Alle alle 226 melba 251 bee-eaters 252 Blyth’s Pipit 438
Alopochen aegyptiacus pallidus 250 Bewick’s Swan 60 Blyth’s Reed Warbler
408 Aquatic Warbler 443 bill shape 22 444
Alpine Accentor 293 Aquila binoculars 50, 51 Bobolink 454
Alpine Chough 367 adalberti 414 BirdLife International Bombycilla garrulus 291
Alpine Swift 251 chrysaetos 126 53 Bombycillidae 288
American Golden clanga 414 bird-tables 49 Bonaparte’s Gull 429
Plover 422 heliaca 413 birds of prey 120, 413 Bonasa bonasia 417
American Wigeon 409 nipalensis 414 birdwatching 50 Bonelli’s Eagle 129
Anas pomarina 414 Bittern 75 Bonelli’s Warbler 335
acuta 103 Archaeopteryx 8 Little 76 Booted Eagle 128
469
INDEX
470
INDEX
471
INDEX
Franklin’s Gull 430 Golden Plover cont. Grebe cont. Gull cont.
Fratercula arctica 227 American 422 Red-necked 60 Little 213
Fringilla Pacific 422 Slavonian 62 Mediterranean 208
coelebs 380 Goldeneye 115 grebes 55, 404 Ring-billed 429
montifringilla 381 Barrow’s 412 Green Sandpiper 186 Ross’s 431
Fringillidae 379, 451 Goldfinch 385 Green Woodpecker 259 Sabine’s 430
Fulica Goosander 117 Greenfinch 386 Slender-billed 429
atra 159 Goose, greenfinches 374 Yellow-legged 210
cristata 419 Barnacle 98 Greenish Warbler 446 Gull-billed Tern 219
Fulmar 64, 65 Bean 94 Greenshank 189 gulls 201, 429
Fulmarus glacialis 65 Brent 99 Grey Heron 82 Gypaetus barbatus 413
Canada 97 Grey Owl, Great 434 Gyps fulvus 122
G Egyptian 408 Grey Phalarope 198 Gyr Falcon 416
Gadwall 102 Greylag 96 Grey Plover 173
Galerida cristata 266 Lesser White-fronted Grey Shrike, H
Galeridae theklae 266 408 Great 359 Haematopodidae 163
Galliformes 146 Pink-footed 95 Lesser 360 Haematopus ostralegus
Gallinago Red-breasted 408 Grey Wagtail 287 164
gallinago 196 Snow 407 Grey-cheeked Thrush Haliaeetus albicilla 125
media 428 White-fronted 93 440 Harlequin Duck 412
Gallinula chloropus Goshawk 139 Grey-headed Harrier,
158 Grasshopper Warbler Woodpecker 436 Hen 133
Gallinule, Purple 419 328 Greylag Goose 96 Marsh 132
gamebirds 145, 417 grassland 44 Griffon Vulture 122 Montagu’s 134
Gannet 71 Great Black-backed Grosbeak, Pallid 415
gannets 70 Gull 201 Pine 452 harriers 120
Garden Warbler 314 Great Black-headed Rose-breasted 454 hatching 16
gardens 48, 49 Gull 430 Grouse 145 Hawfinch 391
Garganey 107 Great Bustard 161 Black 149 Hawk Owl 435
Garrulus glandarius 364 Great Crested Grebe Hazel 417 hawks 120
Gavia 61 Willow 146 Hazel Grouse 417
adamsii 404 Great Grey Owl 434 Gruidae 154, 420 heath 42
arctica 57 Great Grey Shrike 359 Gruiformes 155 Hen Harrier 133
immer 58 Great Knot 424 Grus grus 160 Heron,
stellata 56 Great Northern Diver Guillemot 229 Grey 82
Gaviidae 55, 404 58 Black 228 Night 77
Gaviiformes 56 Great Reed Warbler Brünnich’s 433 Purple 83
geese 89 326 Gull, Squacco 79
Glareola Great shearwater 405 Audouin’s 430 herons 74
maldivarium 421 Great Skua 202 Black-headed 206 Herring Gull 209
nordmanni 420 Great Snipe 428 Bonaparte’s 429 Hieraaetus
pratincola 168 Great Spotted Common 207 fasciatus 129
Glareolidae 163, 420 Woodpecker 260 Franklin’s 430 pennatus 128
Glaucidium passerinum Great Tit 342 Glaucous 214 Himantopus himantopus
435 Great White Egret 81 Great Black-backed 166
Glaucous Gull 214 Greater Flamingo 88 212 Hippolais
Glossy Ibis 407 Greater Sand Plover Great Black-headed caligata 445
Godwit 163 422 430 icterina 331
Bar-tailed 192 Greater Yellowlegs 427 Herring 209 languida 444
Black-tailed 191 Grebe, Iceland 215 olivetorum 444
Goldcrest 337 Black-necked 63 Ivory 431 pallida 445
Golden Eagle 126 Great Crested 61 Laughing 431 polyglotta 332
Golden Oriole 361 Little 59 Lesser Black-backed hirundines 272
Golden Plover 174 Pied-billed 404 211 Hirundinidae 272
472
INDEX
473
INDEX
Mallard 101 Montifringilla nivalis Nyctea scandiaca 435 Pagophila eburnea 431
Mandarin 409 452 Nycticorax nycticorax 77 pair bonding 14
Manx Shearwater 67 monogamy 15 Palearctic 28, 29
Marbled Duck 410 Moorhen 158 O Pallas’s Warbler 447
markings 18 moorland 38 Oceanites oceanicus 406 Pallid Harrier 415
Marmaronetta Morus bassanus 71 Oceanodroma Pallid Swift 250
angustirostris 410 Motacilla leucorhoa 69 Pandion haliaetus 121
Marmora’s Warbler alba 285 castro 406 Pandionidae 120
443 alba alba 285 Oenanthe Panurus biarmicus 349
Marsh Harrier 132 cinerea 287 hispanica 301 Parakeet, Ring-necked
Marsh Sandpiper 190 citreola 439 hispanica hispanica 301 434
marsh terns 201, 224 flava 286 hispanica melanoleuca Paridae 341, 448
Marsh Tit 347 flava feldegg 286 301 parks 48
Marsh Warbler 325 flava flava 286 isabellina 440 Parrot Crossbill 451
Martin, Motacillidae 278, 438 leucura 302 parrots 434
Crag 274 moulting 19 oenanthe 300 partial migrants 27
House 277 mountains 38, 40 oenanthe leucorhoa 300 Partridge,
Sand 273 Moustached Warbler Olive-backed Pipit 438 Barbary 417
martins 272 323 Oriental Pratincole 421 Grey 151
Masked Shrike 449 Muscicapa striata 339 Oriole, Golden 361 Red-legged 150
mating 15 Muscicapidae 313, 447 orioles 356 Rock 417
Meadow Pipit 282 Mute Swan 90 Oriolidae 356 partridges 145
mechanical sounds 25 mutual preening 15 Oriolus oriolus 361 Parulidae 450
Mediterranean Gull Orphean Warbler 442 Parus
208 N Ortolan Bunting 397 ater 343
Mediterranean scrub 42 natural selection 9 Osprey 121 ater ledouci 343
Mediterranean Naumann’s Thrush 441 Otididae 154 caeruleus 344
Shearwater 405 Neophron percnopterus Otis tarda 161 cristatus 345
Melanitta 124 Otus scops 245 cinctus 448
fusca 113 Neornithes 8 Ouzel, Ring 312 cyanus 448
nigra 112 nests 16–17 Owl, lugubris 448
perspicillata 412 Netta rufina 412 Barn 246 major 342
Melanocorypha calandra Night Heron 77 Eagle 238 montanus 346
270 Nightingale 296 Great Grey 434 palustris 347
Melodious Warbler 332 Thrush 439 Hawk 435 Passer
Merganser, Red- nightingales 294 Little 244 domesticus 375
breasted 118 Nightjar 247 Long-eared 242 domesticus italiae 376
Mergus Red-necked 436 Pygmy 435 hispaniolensis 376
albellus 116 nightjars 238, 436 Scops 245 montanus 377
merganser 117 North American Short-eared 243 Passeridae 374, 452
serrator 118 warblers 450 Snowy 435 Passeriformes 265
Merlin 144 Northern Diver, Tawny 239 Passerines 252
Meropidae 252 Great 58 Tengmalm’s 241 Pechora Pipit 439
Merops apiaster 254 Nucifraga Ural 435 Pectoral Sandpiper
migration 26–27 caryocatactes 365 owls 238, 434 426
Miliaria calandra 403 caryocatactes Oxyura Pelecanidae 70, 406
Milvus macrothyncus 365 jamaicensis 119 Pelecaniformes 71
migrans 131 Numenius leucocephala 413 Pelecanus
milvus 130 arquata 193 Oystercatcher 164 crispus 406
Mistle Thrush 309 phaeopus 194 onocrotalus 406
Montagu’s Harrier 134 Nuthatch 352 P Pelican,
Monticola Corsican 448 Pacific Golden Plover Dalmatian 406
saxatilis 306 Rock 449 422 White 406
solitarius 305 nuthatches 351, 448 Pacus canus 436 pelicans 70, 406
474
INDEX
Penduline Tit 341, 350 Phylloscopus cont. Plover cont. Puffinus cont.
Perdix perdix 151 trochiloides 446 Pacific Golden 422 griseus 405
Peregrine 143 trochilus 333 Ringed 170 yelkouan 405
Perisoreus infaustus 450 Pica pica 363 Semipalmated 421 puffinus 67
Pernis apivorus 137 Picidae 257, 436 plovers 163 Purple Gallinule 419
Petrel, Piciformes 258 plumage 18–19 Purple Heron 83
Leach’s 69 Picoides tridactylus 437 Pluvialis Purple Sandpiper 182
Storm 68 Picus apricaria 174 Pygmy Cormorant 407
petrels 64, 405, 406 viridis 259 dominica 422 Pygmy Owl 435
Petronia petronia 378 viridis sharpei 259 fulva 422 Pyrrhocorax
Phalacrocoracidae 70, Pied Flycatcher 340 squatarola 173 graculus 367
407 pied flycatchers 313 Pochard 108 pyrrhocorax 366
Phalacrocorax Pied Wagtail 285 Red-crested 412 Pyrrhula pyrrhula 390
aristotelis 73 pied woodpeckers 261, Podiceps
aristotelis desmaresti 73 262 auritus 62 Q
carbo 72 Pied-billed Grebe 404 cristatus 61 Quail 152
carbo sinensis 72 pigeons 231 grisegena 60
pygmeus 407 feral 232 nigricollis 63 R
Phalarope, racing 233 Podicipedidae 55, 404 radio tagging 53
Grey 198 domestic 232 Podicipediformes 59 Rail,Water 156
Red-necked 199 town 232 Podilymbus podiceps rails 154, 156
Wilson’s 429 Pin-tailed Sandgrouse 404 Rallidae 154, 419
Phalaropus 433 Polysticta stelleri 411 Rallus aquaticus 156
fulicarius 198 Pine Bunting 453 Pomarine Skua 203 rare species 404
lobatus 199 Pine Grosbeak 452 Porphyrio porphyrio 419 Raven 371
tricolor 429 Pinicola enucleator 452 Porzana Razorbill 230
Phasianidae 145, 417 Pink-footed Goose 95 parva 419 Recurvirostra avosetta
Phasianus colchicus 153 Pintail 103 porzana 157 165
Pheasant 153 Pipit, pusilla 419 Recurvirostridae 163
Golden 418 Blyth’s 438 Pratincole, Red Kite 130
Lady Amherst’s 418 Meadow 282 Black-winged 420 Red-backed Shrike 357
pheasants 145 Olive-backed 438 Collared 168 Red-breasted
Pheucticus ludovicianus Pechora 439 Oriental 421 Flycatcher 447
454 Red-throated 284 pratincoles 163 Red-breasted Goose
Philomachus pugnax 200 Richard’s 438 probing 22, 23 308
Phoenicopteridae 84 Rock 281 Procellariiformes 65 Red-breasted
Phoenicopteriformes Tawny 279 Procellariidae 64, 405 Merganser 118
88 Tree 283 promiscuity 15 Red-crested Pochard
Phoenicopterus ruber 88 Water 280 Prunella 412
Phoenicurus pipits 278, 438 collaris 293 Red-eyed Vireo 450
ochruros 299 Platalea leucorodia 87 modularis 292 Red-flanked Bluetail
phoenicurus 298 Plectrophenax nivalis 401 Prunellidae 288 440
Phylloscopus Plegadis falcinellus 407 Psittacidae 434 Red-footed Falcon 416
bonelli 335 Plover, Psittacula krameri 434 Red-legged Partridge
bonelli orientalis 335 American Golden Ptarmigan 147 150
borealis 446 422 Pterocles Red-necked Grebe 60
collybita 336 Caspian 422 alchata 433 Red-necked Nightjar
collybita tristis 336 Goggle-eye 167 orientalis 433 436
fuscatus 445 Golden 174 Pteroclididae 433 Red-necked Phalarope
humei 446 Greater Sand 422 Ptynoprogne rupestris 274 199
inornatus 446 Grey 173 Puffin 227 Red-necked Stint 426
proregulus 447 Kentish 171 Puffinus Red-rumped Swallow
sibilatrix 334 Lesser Sand 421 assimilis 405 276
swarzi 445 Little Ringed 169 gravis 405 Red-throated Diver 56
475
INDEX
Red-throated Pipit 284 Ruddy Duck 119 Scops Owl 245 Sitta
Redpoll 384 Ruddy Shelduck 408 Scoter, europaea 352
Arctic 451 Ruff 200 Common 112 neumayer 449
Redshank 187 Rufous Bush Robin Surf 412 whiteheadi 448
Spotted 188 439 Velvet 113 Sittidae 351, 448
Redstart 298 Rüppell’s Warbler 442 Scottish Crossbill 452 skeleton 10
Black 299 Rustic Bunting 452 sea 35, 36 Skua,
Redwing 308 Sedge Warbler 322 Arctic 204
Reed Bunting 395 S Semi-collared Great 202
Reed Warbler 324 Sabine’s Gull 430 Flycatcher 447 Long-tailed 205
Blyth’s 444 Saker 416 Semipalmated Plover Pomarine 203
Great 326 Sand Martin 273 421 skuas 201
Reef Egret,Western Sand Plover, Semipalmated Skylark 265
407 Greater 422 Sandpiper 425 Slavonian Grebe 62
Regulus Lesser 421 Senegal Thick-knee Slender-billed Gull 429
ignicapillus 338 Sanderling 177 420 Small Button-quail 418
regulus 337 Sandgrouse 433 Serin 389 Smew 116
Remiz pendulinus 350 Black-bellied 433 Serinus Snipe 196
Remizidae 341 Pin-tailed 433 citrinella 388 Great 428
reservoirs 31 Sandpiper, serinus 389 Jack 197
Rhodostethia rosea 431 Baird’s 425 Shag 73 Snow Bunting 401
Richard’s Pipit 438 Broad-billed 423 Sharp-tailed Sandpiper Snow Goose 407
Ring Ouzel 312 Buff-breasted 426 426 Snowfinch 452
Ring-billed Gull 429 Common 184 Shearwater, Snowy Owl 435
Ring-necked Duck Curlew 179 Cory’s 66 Sociable Lapwing 423
410 Green 186 Great 405 Solitary Sandpiper 427
Ring-necked Parakeet Least 424 Little 405 Somateria
434 Marsh 190 Manx 67 fischeri 411
Ringed Plover 170 Pectoral 426 Mediterranean 405 mollissima 111
Little 169 Purple 182 Sooty 405 spectabilis 411
Riparia riparia 273 Semipalmated 425 shearwaters 64, 405 Sombre Tit 448
River Warbler 443 Sharp-tailed 426 Shelduck 100 song 24
Robin 295 Solitary 427 Ruddy 408 Song Thrush 307
Rufous Bush 439 Spotted 427 shelducks 89 Sooty Shearwater 405
Rock Bunting 400 Stilt 428 Shorelark 271 Sooty Tern 432
Rock Dove 232 Terek 424 Short-eared Owl 243 Spanish Imperial Eagle
Rock Nuthatch 449 Upland 428 Short-toed Eagle 127 414
Rock Pipit 281 Western 425 Short-toed Lark 269 Spanish Sparrow 376
Rock Sparrow 378 White-rumped 425 Lesser 437 Sparrow,
Rock Thrush 306 Wood 185 Short-toed Treecreeper House 375
Blue 305 sandpipers 163 355 Rock 378
rock thrushes 294 Sandwich Tern 218 Shoveler 104 Spanish 376
Roller 255 Sardinian Warbler 318 Shrike, Tree 377
rollers 252 Savi’s Warbler 329 Great Grey 359 White-throated 454
Rook 369 sawbills 117, 118 Isabelline 449 Sparrowhawk 138
rooks 362 Saxicola Lesser Grey 360 Levant 415
Rose-breasted rubetra 303 Masked 449 sparrows 374
Grosbeak 454 torquata 304 Red-backed 357 Spectacled Eider 411
Rose-coloured Starling torquata maura 304 Woodchat 358 Spectacled Warbler 442
450 Scarlet Rosefinch 393 shrikes 356, 449 Spoonbill 87
Roseate Tern 222 Scaup 109 Siberian Jay 450 Spotless Starling 373
Rosefinch, Scarlet 393 Lesser 411 Siberian Thrush 441 Spotted Crake 157
Ross’s Gull 431 Scolopacidae 163, 423 Siberian Tit 448 Spotted Cuckoo, Great
Royal Tern 431 Scolopax rusticola 195 Siskin 387 434
476
INDEX
477
INDEX
478
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
THE AUTHOR would like to thank: the team at Dorling 115clb, 119cr, 120bc, 121tc, 121tr, 121cra, 122cr, 125ca, 125cb,
Kindersley for their hard work and patience; Marcella for her 126tc, 126cb, 130tc, 130crb, 141cb, 141crb, 144tr, 144crb, 145tr,
encouragement and forbearance at home; Chris Gomersall for 145cra, 145bc, 146crb, 147tr, 147crb, 148tr, 148bc, 149c, 150tr,
his dedication in the pursuit of photographs; and Richard 151c, 154cla, 154cra, 154bc, 155cr, 158tc, 158cra, 159crb, 161tr,
Thewlis for the research on the maps. 161cra, 161bc, 163cra, 163cl, 163br, 164tr, 164crb, 165cra, 167tr,
167c, 174bc, 175cra, 176crb, 182bcr, 183ccb, 184tc, 184cr, 185cr,
DORLING KINDERSLEY would like to thank: Sean O’Connor, 186crb, 187tr, 187cra, 187tcr, 189tr, 189cra, 189crb, 191tc, 191cla,
Rachel Gibson, Kim Bryan, Simon Maugham, Peter Frances, 192cla, 193cla, 193ccb, 196tr, 201cra, 201cl, 201br, 206tc, 209tr,
and Rick Morris for getting the project started; Carolyn Clerkin 214tr, 216ccb, 218cra, 221tr, 222cra, 222cbr, 227cca, 227ccb,
for compiling the acknowledgments. 228cb, 229tc, 229crb, 229trb, 230tr, 231cra, 232tr, 234c, 235c,
The publisher would like to thank the following for their kind 242tc, 242ccb, 243tc, 248bc, 249ccb, 250ccb, 253cra, 256tr, 256cra,
permission to reproduce their photographs: 259tr, 268ccb, 269tr, 270tc, 270tr, 270ccb, 272bc, 275tc, 275cra,
a-above; c-centre; b-below; l-left; r-right; t-top. 283cb, 285tr, 288clb, 288crb, 289cla, 290br, 291tr, 291cla, 292ccb,
294cra, 294clb, 295tc, 295ccr, 296cra, 296cr, 299tc, 299tr, 303tc,
Aquila Wildlife Images: Darren Frost 419tl; Hanne and Jens 307tc, 308tr, 309ccb, 313cla, 313cra, 321ccb, 322tr, 322ccb, 324cb,
Erikson 126tr; Kevin Carlson 474br; M Barnett 474tl; Mike 344ccb, 345ccb, 362tc, 362cr, 363tr, 364crb, 366tc, 369tc, 369cbr,
Wilkes 386tr; Paul Harris 437tr;Wayne Lankinen 409bl, 409br, 370tr, 370ccb, 371tcl, 372tc, 372cra, 374cr, 375tc, 375cra, 375ccb,
474bl. 378tr, 378ccb, 379bc, 380cb, 386ccb, 387crb, 387cca, 394crb,
Ardea London Ltd: Chris Knights 384cb; Hans D. 398tc, 398ccr, 399tc, 399tr, 399crb, 403cra, 405tl, 406bl, 413tl,
Dossenbach 248tr; John Daniels 194tc; Peter Steyn 405tr, 418tr; 419bl, 429br, 431br, 432tr, 434tl.
Uno Berggren 241tc. Mark Hamblin: 9bca, 56tr, 72tc, 82cr, 91cra, 99c, 103tc, 104ca,
BBC Natural History Unit: Dietmar Hill 238tr; Dietmar 109ca, 113tc, 114cr, 115crb, 138tr, 159ca, 159cr, 165tc, 170cra,
Nill 361cr; Elio Della Ferrera 122cra; Hans Christoph Kappel 170cra, 173c, 178tc, 184tr, 237tr, 239tr, 244tr, 246tr, 247cra,
238br; Jose B Ruiz 238cr; Klaus Nigge 122crb; Rico & Ruiz 254tc, 254cbr, 257br, 260tr, 261tr, 261cca, 278bc, 286tc, 288tr,
327tr, 373tr, 436tl;Warwick Sloss 221tc. 292tr, 298cla, 300cal, 304tr, 309cla, 339crb, 339, 341bc, 344tc,
Richard Brooks: 355crb, 417br. 345tc, 346bcrtr, 364tc, 370cr, 380cra, 383cla, 390tc, 390tr,
Laurie Campbell Photography: 257bl, 275cbl, 288bc, 362bl. 390cla, 395tr, 395cra, 398cra.
R.J. Chandler: 58cra, 152tr, 171tr, 171tr, 173cra, 219tc, 292cla, John Hesseltine: 43bl.
382cla, 421tl, 423tl, 424tl, 424bl, 425tl, 426tl, 437br. Eugène Hûttenmoser: 351bc, 352tr, 352cla, 353bl.
Robin Chittenden: 11br, 18br, 117tr, 207cla, 250cca, 300ccb, Imagestate Ltd: 22bl.
336crb, 441tr, 446tl, 451tr, 452tr, 453br Rob Jordan: 51tcl, 55bc, 374bc.
Corbis: Eric and David Hosking 311tcr. Steve Knell: 226crb.
David Cottridge: 34br, 64crb, 68cra, 68crb, 80tc, 88cr, 97tc, Chris Knights: 24tr, 51tc, 92cr, 93cr, 118crb, 167tc, 167cr,
136ca, 149cl, 166tc, 168tr, 171tc, 179tc, 181cla, 186tr, 202cb, 244tc, 273ccb, 310cb, 356br, 374cl, 381crb, 385crb.
210tr, 214cr, 229tr, 250tr, 252tr, 259cla, 261ccr, 263tr, 276cra, Mike Lane: 8ra, 9tcb, 9bcl, 12bl, 13bl, 16tr, 19tc, 24c, 34tl,
279cbr, 280tr, 281tc, 283tc, 283tr, 296tc, 297cra, 297bcr, 299tla, 55cca, 57ca, 59ca, 60tr, 61tr, 61cl, 61bc, 62tr, 68cca, 71tr, 73tc,
300tc, 302ccb, 306tr, 315cra, 315ccb, 318tc, 319tc, 331tr, 335cr, 73crb, 89cra, 93tc, 94tr, 95tc, 96c, 102c, 106tr, 109tr, 110tr,
356tl, 376ccb, 389ccb, 397tc, 403tr, 434tr, 440bl, 442tr, 443tl, 114tc, 119tc, 132cr, 132crb, 136tr, 146cra, 147cla, 147ca, 152tc,
444bl, 444br, 448br, 450br, 453tr. 153tc, 155tc, 156tr, 159c, 164tc, 169tr, 170tc, 170tc, 171cra,
Göran Ekström: 251c, 281bcr, 446br. 171cra, 171crb, 171crb, 174tr, 175tr, 177tr, 177ca, 182tr, 191tr,
Hanne and Jens Eriksen: 107cra, 120tr, 129crb, 157cla, 198tr, 194tr, 200tr, 205tc, 205tr, 205crb, 206cla, 207c, 220tr, 222tr,
199cra, 280cb, 306tc, 360tr, 384tr, 396tr, 397crb, 413bl, 413br, 227tr, 228tr, 252ccl, 265tr, 269tc, 273tc, 278tr, 285crb, 287tr,
420bl, 423tr, 423br, 424br, 425tr, 428bl, 430tr, 432tl, 435tr, 438tr, 297tc, 302tr, 303cca, 304tc, 307tr, 310tr, 310cla, 311tr, 311cla,
440tr, 447br, 449tr, 450tr. 313bl, 316ccr, 318cra, 321cla, 322tc, 325tc, 326tr, 326ca, 326cr,
FLPA – Images of nature: 94bcl, 97cr, 160cr, 166cla, 210tc, 328tr, 328cb, 329tr, 329cr, 330tr, 334tc, 335ccb, 340tr, 347tr,
258tr, 267c, 315tr, 317cra, 322br, 348ca, 375bcr, 388tr, 396ccb, 348tr, 352ca, 358cla, 371tr, 376tc, 381tc, 381cra, 395tc, 402cra,
435tl; E & D Hosking 405br; E Coppola/A Petretti/Panda 404br, 412br, 416tl, 421bl, 421br, 426bl, 429bl, 430tl, 432br,
416tr; Foto Natura Stock 66cra; Fritz Polking 240tc; H Hautala 433tl, 434bl, 434br, 439bl, 443tr, 443bl, 449br.
436br; Hans Dieter Brandl 262cla, 437tl; John Holmes 441br; Gordon Langsbury: 57cr, 71cra, 78tc, 78cr, 79cr, 149cr,
John Watkins 118tc; Lee Rue 106cbr; M Melodia/Panda 66tr; 188crb, 223cca, 367tr, 402tr, 407tr, 407bl, 408tl, 408br, 415tr,
Martin B Withers/ FLPA 235cla; P Harris/Panda Photo 367cr; 415bl, 420tr, 421tr, 427br, 428tl, 428tr.
Panda Photo 66tc, 200cr; Peter Steyn 436tr; R Wilmshurst Henry Lehto: 160tc, 388cla, 446tr.
103ca; Richard Brooks 73cl, 274tr, 305tc, 305tr, 320ccb, 330ccb, Tim Loseby: 80tr, 98tc, 103cb, 112crb, 115tr, 190crb, 198crb,
399cra; Robin Chittenden 389tr; Roger Tidman/FLPA 86cl; S 215tr, 279ca, 285tc, 303cla, 315cla, 339, 378cla, 384tc, 388ccb,
C Brown 225ccb; Silvestre 417tr; Silvestria 294br; Silvestris 393tc, 393cla, 393ccb, 397cra, 400cla, 400ccb, 444tr, 452br.
323tc;Tony Hamblin 115crb;W S Clark 129tc, 415br;W George McCarthy: 9bra, 9bc, 73tr, 76cr, 76cr, 77tc, 77cl, 78tr,
Wisniewski 62cl;Yossi Eshbol 72c, 76tr, 417bl. 79tr, 79cla, 81tc, 88bl, 100cra, 111tr, 111ca, 135tc, 146cb, 153tr,
Bob Glover: 210cbl, 211cla, 212tc, 213tr, 217tc, 217ccb, 233cr, 153cra, 157tr, 157tr, 183tr, 188tr, 190cla, 192tr, 204tr, 211crb,
233cb, 274clb, 281cb, 314ccb, 317cb, 379cla, 382crb, 394tr. 221cla, 225tr, 245tr, 262tc, 277ccb, 286bcra, 287ca, 349tr, 352tr,
Chris Gomersall Photography: 1, 4, 5, 8tr, 9bcla, 10cr, 18tc, 357tc, 357tr, 409tl, 418tl, 425br, 427tr, 439br, 442bl, 448bl.
18trb, 18cl, 18cr, 21cl, 22cr, 22br, 23cr, 25tl, 26ca, 28cra, 29crb, Anthony McGeehan: 35crb, 66crb, 67crb, 405bl.
32cr, 35ca, 36cl, 39cr, 41clb, 45bl, 51tcr, 51c, 52tr, 54c, 56crb, 57cb, Juan Martin Simon: 414tl.
58tr, 58crb, 61cr, 64bc, 64cca, 65c, 67tr, 67ca, 70bl, 71crb, 74cra, Natural History Museum: 8bl, 9bl, 16cla, 16ca, 16cca, 16cr,
75tc, 75c, 77cr, 81c, 81cr, 82tc, 82bc, 85tr, 85cr, 89tr, 89bc, 90c, 16cl, 16c, 16cc, 16bl, 16bc, 16br.
91crb, 91ccb, 97tr, 97cl, 98cr, 98bcr, 99clb, 100cr, 100bl, 101ca, Natural Picture Library: Rico & Ruiz 9tr.
101c, 102cr, 105cb, 108cla, 108cra, 108crb, 110cra, 110crb, 111crb, Philip Newman: 133cl.
479
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
N.H.P.A.: 338cb; Bill Coster 143tc; Dave Watts 2–3; Nigel J 195tr, 196cla, 197tr, 197crb, 198tc, 198ca, 199tr, 200cra, 203tr,
Dennis 223cla; Ralph and Daphne Keller 437br; Roger Tidman 203cra, 203bcr, 206cra, 208tr, 208cla, 210cbr, 212tcl, 217tr,
69tr. 217cla, 218tc, 218ccb, 219cra, 219ccr, 220cb, 223tr, 223ccb,
Oxford Scientific Films: Chris Knights 150cb; Mike Brown 225ccr, 226ca, 228tc, 232cb, 233tr, 234tr, 235tr, 236cla, 237cla,
305cla; Paolo Fioratti 256cr 251tr, 254cra, 255tr, 259bl, 265cbr, 267cla, 269ccb, 271tc, 273tr,
Jari Peltomaki: 241crb, 258c. 276tr, 276crb, 277tc, 277tr, 277cra, 284cla, 284crb, 286bcr,
Benjam Pöntinen: 448tl. 291bc, 293tr, 293bc, 296tr, 298tc, 300tr, 301tc, 301cca, 309tr,
René Pop: 230tc, 446bl, 449bl. 314tr, 316tr, 316cra, 319tr, 320tr, 320cla, 324tr, 335tr, 336tc,
Mike Read: 92tr, 175crb, 452tl. 336cra, 340cla, 342tr, 344tr, 352bc, 358tc, 358tr, 359tc, 361tr,
RSPB Images: Andy Hay 14tr, 15cl, 33cl, 39tl, 41tl, 41br,42tl, 364tr, 365tr, 372tcl, 373tc, 373cla, 373crb, 373bcl, 375tr, 376tr,
43tr, 44b, 45tl, 50tlb, 50cra, 50crb, 51br, 52cba, 53tr, 53bl, 175tcl, 376cla, 380tc, 383crb, 386tc, 389tc, 389cra, 391tc, 391tr, 391cla,
196crb, 377tr, 377crb; Barry Hughes 17tr, 37cb, 170crb, 170bcl, 392cla, 392ccb, 394bl, 400tc, 401tc, 401tr, 403tc, 406br, 407bl,
407tl; Bill Paton 17br, 25cr, 88tr, 348cb, 368crb; Bob Glover 408bl, 409tr, 410tr, 411tr, 411bl, 412bl, 413tr, 415tl, 417tl, 418br,
14ac, 19bl, 21c, 22cl, 47cr, 47bla, 47bc, 48cl, 49tr, 49cc, 52cla, 419tr, 423bl, 424tr, 425bl, 428br, 431tr, 438tl, 442tl, 443br, 445tl,
138crb, 142tc, 151cb, 173tc, 183cr, 187crb, 192crb, 236crb, 268tl, 447tl, 449tl, 451br, 452bl.
349cr, 372crb, 403ccb; Carlos Sanchez Alonso 30tr, 31crb, 40b, Ray Tipper: 87cl, 157crb, 180tr, 285crb, 290cla, 318ccb,
44crb, 86cb, 122tr, 130tr, 131cb, 134cra, 142tr, 160tr, 161cb, 332ccb, 419br, 422tl, 422tr, 422bl.
240ccb, 245tc, 299bc, 358cbr; Chris Gomersall 17bl, 19bc, 20bl, Colin Varndell: 59tr, 72cra, 143cla, 158tr, 169cb, 321tr, 336ccb,
20bc, 20br, 21bl, 21bc, 21br, 27tr, 27cra, 30ca, 30cc, 30bl, 30bc, 343cca, 354crb.
33tl, 33tr, 35tr, 35tcb, 35cr, 38br, 44tr, 46b, 48tc, 49cr, 51bla, 53c, Halli Verrinder: 11bl, 11b.
104cr, 125tr, 143crb, 165crb, 186cla, 191crb, 221cb, 237tcr; Chris Roger Wilmshurst: 8cr, 8crb, 28clb, 65tr, 102tc, 104tc, 105tr,
Knights 13crb, 15cr, 29br, 32b, 33crb, 36crb, 44cra, 48cr, 50tr, 107cla, 108tc, 142c, 143tr, 151tr, 156crb, 175tcr, 179cla, 193tr,
52bl, 146cla, 148c, 150bcr, 150ccr, 193cca, 233cla, 285ccr, 291tc, 204cca, 207tr, 208trb, 211tc, 216cra, 229cbl, 253tc, 253cra, 262tr,
325tr, 361ca, 379tr, 392tr, 393bcr, 416bl; Colin Carver 28crb, 266c, 268tr, 281tr, 298tr, 300cbl, 301tr, 304cla, 319cla, 368tr,
38bl; David Broadbent 46tr; David Hosking 75cr; David Kjaer 371crb, 382tc, 385tc, 410bl, 447bl, 453tl, 453bl.
28tr, 138cra, 144tc, 204ccb, 242cra, 266cra, 303ccb, 341cla, Windrush Photos: Alan Petty 156cla, 234tc;Andy Harmer
344cra, 383tr, 401crb; David Tipling 21tl, 52br, 152cr, 200tc; 275cbr;Arnoud van den Berg 69cra, 94cb, 388tc, 404bl;Arthur
Dusan Boucny 17cb, 37clb, 360cr, 435br; Eric Woods 25bl; Morris 73bl, 218tr, 222tc, 412tl, 435bl, 450bl, 474tr; Barry
Ernie Janes 31tr, 177crb; George McCarthy 14cl, 15ca, 17cr, Hughes 114crb, 170tr; Chris Schenck 70tr, 114cra, 146tr; David
35bl, 47tl, 81bc, 185tr; Gerald Downey 31cl, 37cla, 47tr, 135cb, Cottridge 42bl; David Tipling 15tr, 18cc, 19tr, 23br, 36b, 57tr,
286cra, 398tr; Gordon Langsbury 27br, 33cr, 41cl, 140cb, 188tc, 60cl, 69cra, 74bc, 82bl, 83cr, 87c, 92tc, 96tr, 96cr, 98cla, 99cra,
282ccb, 295tr; Jan Halady 312cb; Jan Sevcik 23cra, 139ccb, 99crb, 101tr, 105cr, 109cra, 109cr, 114cl, 117tc, 119tr, 142cr, 159tr,
224cca, 247tr, 398ccl; John Lawton Roberts 254tc, 259c, 340cb; 160cl, 174tc, 178cra, 181clb, 185tc, 199cla, 200cla, 202tr, 209tc,
Leslie J Borg 78ccb; Malcolm Hunt 26bl, 179crb, 317cla, 337tr, 209ca, 211tr, 212cra, 212tr, 213cra, 214tc, 214ca, 216trb, 232cla,
406tl; Mark Hamblin 23tr, 28cla, 34tr, 38cr, 49bl, 133cra, 138tc, 236tr, 241tr, 243c, 255tc, 257tr, 260cr, 263tc, 263cbr, 264bc, 266tc,
260c, 290bc, 292tc, 308crb, 312tr, 342cra, 342crb, 346c, 364tr, 271tr, 279tr, 284tr, 286c, 295cra, 301cbr, 327c, 328tc, 334ccb,
383tc, 386cla, 390crb; Marianne Wilding 31clb; Maurice Walker 341tr, 349tc, 365bcl, 366tr, 367ccl, 380tr, 381tr, 386cca, 387tr,
16cr, 237cb, 342bcl, 343tr, 343tr; Michael Gore 40cr, 78cca, 396cca, 406tr, 408tr, 410tl, 410br, 411br, 412tr, 414tr, 414bl, 419bl,
87clb, 305ccb, 355tc; Mike Lane 25tr, 25br, 37tr, 37crb, 40ca, 420tl, 422br, 429tl, 437bl, 438bl, 438br, 439tr, 441tl, 445bl, 445br,
65cr, 87cla, 135tr, 136cr, 168crb, 178crb, 194cr, 255tc, 264tr, 447tr, 450tl; George McCarthy 16cl; Göran Ekström 113crb,
297cb, 324cla, 369tr, 387cla, 393tr; Mike McKavett 289cr; Mike 128crb, 360tc, 363bcr, 436bl; Gordon Langsbury 13cr; Ian Fisher
Read 26cl, 166crb; Mike Richards 43cla, 46cr, 247crb; Paul 73cra; J Hollis 359tr; Jari Peltomaki 38ca, 350ccb; Julian Bhalerao
Doherty 137tr; Peter Perfect 21ca, 363bl; Philip Newman 14bl, 229cb, 414tr; Kevin Carlson 13ca, 17ca, 162c, 349cla, 400tr; Paul
49cla, 307ccr, 319ccb; Ray Kennedy 48b; Raymond Franklin Doherty 21r, 137cl, 137bcr, 368cra; Pentti Johansson 13tl, 25cb,
90br; Richard Brooks 10bl, 26br, 27crb, 36cra, 151cla, 260tc, 60crb, 258tc, 365crb; Peter Cairns 345tr; Ray Tipper 43tl; R. H.
284cra, 311tcl, 350tc, 366ccr, 372cla, 382tr, 391ccb; Richard de Heer 117crb; Richard Brooks 40tr, 80cr, 180tc, 274ccr, 298cb,
Revels 23bc, 32cla; Robert Horne 347cb; Robert Smith 254bc, 359cra, 420br; Roger Tidman 43crb; Roger Wilmhurst 13br;Tom
305cbl, 306crb; Roger Tidman 26cbr, 28bl, 28br, 32tr, 39tr, 42tr, Ennis 56cl, 177cra, 215cb, 426tr, 426br.
43clb, 44cb; Roger Wilmshurst 14br, 17cla, 18tr, 21tr, 24b, 33cla, Steve Young: 12c, 13cb, 18bcl, 19rc, 57cl, 59tc, 60cra, 67tc, 68tr,
37cra, 39crb, 45cra, 47cla, 62crb, 153cr, 158c, 309tc, 312tc; 69cla, 69crb, 72tr, 72, 75bcr, 87tr, 93tr, 100tcl, 102tr, 104tr, 105cl,
Stanley Porter 195cr; Steve Austin 15br, 26tr, 32cl (inset), 34bl, 106tc, 107tc, 107tr, 108tr, 108cr, 109tc, 109cr, 110tc, 111tc, 111cr,
38tr, 39tr, 39cla, 42cl, 51tr, 147trb, 172cr, 172bcr, 226tr; Steve 114tr, 115ca, 115cra, 118tr, 118ca, 169cla, 176tr, 176cla, 178cla,
Knell 24cr,36tr, 46cl, 199bc, 239tc, 333ccb, 340tc, 392tc;Tony 190tr, 203cla, 205cra, 206tr, 206cr, 207ca, 207cl, 209cr, 209ccr,
Hamblin 18ccl, 148cla, 337ccb. 211ca, 212crb, 212trb, 213tc, 213cla, 213ccb, 215tc, 216tr, 220cla,
Carlos Sanchez Alonso: 267tr, 333tc, 350cla. 220cra, 224tr, 224cla, 224ccb, 271crb, 276tc, 285cla, 286tr, 287tc,
Chris Schenk: 430bl, 431bl. 289tr, 297tr, 301cla, 303tr, 304ccb, 315tc, 317tc, 325cb, 330cca,
Science Photo Library: Andrew Syred 11cc. 332tc, 337tc, 350tr, 357cb, 359ccr, 363ca, 395cb, 401cca, 402tc,
K.Taylor: 227cr. 402c, 411tl, 427tl, 427bl, 429tr, 430br, 431tl, 440, 441bl, 442br,
Richard Tibbits: 11bla, 11ba, 24ca. 444tl, 445tr, 451tl, 451bl.
Roger Tidman: 8br, 9tlb, 9br, 11tl, 11tr, 12cra, 18bl, 18bc, 20tr,
23cl, 39cl, 45cb, 49br, 51cr, 53br, 55tr, 56cra, 59cr, 62cr, 71tc,
76tc, 77tr, 79cb, 82tr, 83tcl, 84cla, 85cr, 86tr, 86cr, 88cr, 90tc,
90tr, 90cb, 91cla, 91tcr, 95cra, 95crb, 96bl, 98tr, 99tr, 100tr,
101ca, 103cr, 106cra, 106ccb, 112tc, 112c, 115tc, 115tr, 116ca, Front jacket:Woodfall Wild Images
117ca, 119ca, 123tr, 124tr, 124crb, 127tr, 127cr, 128tr, 129tr, Back jacket: EA Jones
130cla, 131tc, 131cra, 132tc, 132ca, 134tc, 134tr, 134bcr, 139tc, Inside flap: Mike Lane
140tc, 141tc, 141cra, 141br, 162tc, 162tr, 162cr, 164cra, 165cl,
166cra, 172tr, 172cl, 173cl, 174cl, 175bl, 176tc, 179tr, 179cb, All other images © Dorling Kindersley.
180ca, 180bcr, 181tr, 182cla, 182cra, 183cla, 188cla, 192tr, 193tc, For further information see: www.dkimages.com
480