Birdwatching in The United Kingdom

Swifts

Alpine Swift

Breeding throughout mountainous regions of southern Europe and across to the Himalayas these birds are migratory, overwintering in southern Africa or central India. Worldwide, there are a total of ten subspecies from the nominate species, apus melba.

Shrikes

Woodchat Shrike

Shrikes are medium sized predatory birds with hooked bills, sometimes known as butcher birds in recognition of the way in which they catch their prey and feed (from the Latin genus derivative Lanius meaning butcher).

Buntings

Yellowhammer

Male is unmistakeable due to bright yellow head. Females are more low-key.

Gulls and terns

Yellow-Legged Gull

Warblers

Yellow-Browed Warbler

Pipits and wagtails

Yellow Wagtail

This colourful, regular, ground nesting summer visitor breeds throughout Europe, many overwintering across the vast plains of Africa.