NORTHERN MOCKINGBIRD!! - 27.3.21

 Back in February a tweet appeared with some poor photos asking what this bird could be. Most people were happy it was just a Grey Wagtail but then more photos appeared and to everyone’s amazement it was Britain’s 3rd ever Northern Mockingbird! Even with nationwide restrictions the location was identified and quick off the mark birders went and saw it. Thankfully it stayed faithful to the area for many weeks and so myself, George and Matt headed down early and we’re on site before 6am. We joined 4 others already there and stood on a small work ladder to look over the wall. After a brief wait the bird flew out of its roosting bush and into a fruiting palm where it showed brilliantly before dropping out of view. My first ever UK NORTHERN MOCKINGBIRD!

Northern Mockingbird

Happy with the views we headed for home but made a brief stop near Stonehenge in the hope of seeing one of the release programme Great Bustards. Unfortunately we failed to see any but we did have 2 Grey Partridge and numerous Corn Bunting which is always nice to see and hear.