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  • Chest of Dee Waterfalls on the River Dee in the Glenn Dee Valley, Scotland, Uk
    145522.jpg
  • Chest of Dee Waterfalls on the River Dee in the Glenn Dee Valley, Scotland, Uk
    145525.jpg
  • Chest of Dee Waterfalls on the River Dee in the Glenn Dee Valley, Scotland, Uk
    145524.jpg
  • Chest of Dee Waterfalls on the River Dee in the Glenn Dee Valley, Scotland, Uk
    145523.jpg
  • Chest of Dee Waterfalls on the River Dee in the Glenn Dee Valley, Scotland, Uk
    145537.jpg
  • Chest of Dee Waterfalls on the River Dee in the Glenn Dee Valley, Scotland, Uk
    145538.jpg
  • White-chested Emerald - Amazilia brevirostris
    161858.jpg
  • White-chested Emerald - Amazilia brevirostris
    161857.jpg
  • White-chested Emerald - Amazilia brevirostris
    161859.jpg
  • White-chested Emerald - Amazilia brevirostris
    161853.jpg
  • Adult Rufous-chested Dotterel - Charadrius modestus
    135473.jpg
  • Short-tailed Vole (Field Vole) Microtus agrestis Length 11-16cm Locally abundant grassland rodent. Makes network of concealed surface runways and tunnels just below surface of soil, or through compacted roots of grasses. Diet comprises mainly grass roots. Adult has plump body and a relatively shorter tail and smaller ears than Bank Vole. Coat colour is mainly grey brown, palest on chest and belly. Utters shrill squeaks in alarm. Common in grassy habitats ranging from lowland meadows to upland moors. Widespread but absent from Ireland and most islands.
    103188.jpg
  • Bank Vole Clethrionomys glareolus Length 13-17cm Plump, richly coloured vole. Makes underground nest and radiating shallow tunnel network; forages for seeds and fruits above ground. Adult has compact body and mainly reddish brown fur, paler and greyer on chest and belly. Relative to Field Vole, has large ears and long tail. Island ssp. are larger and heavier than mainland animals. Squeaks if alarmed. Common in deciduous woodland, hedgerows and field margins.
    140867.jpg
  • Bank Vole - Clethrionomys glareolus. Length 13-17cm Plump, richly coloured vole. Makes underground nest and radiating shallow tunnel network; forages for seeds and fruits above ground. Adult has compact body and mainly reddish brown fur, paler and greyer on chest and belly. Relative to Field Vole, has large ears and long tail. Island ssp. are larger and heavier than mainland animals. Squeaks if alarmed. Common in deciduous woodland, hedgerows and field margins.
    158000.jpg
  • Osprey - Pandion haliaetus. W 145-160cm. The classic fish-eating raptor. Can look gull-like in flight but fishing technique is unmistakable: hovers, then plunges talons first into water. Sexes are similar. Adult has mainly brown upperparts, except for pale crown; underparts are mainly whitish with darker chest band. In flight from below, looks pale overall with dark carpal patches, dark band along base of flight feathers and dark terminal band on barred tail. Juvenile is similar to adult but darker markings are less distinct. Voice Utters various whistling calls. Status Migrant visitor, seldom seen far from water even on migration. Nests close to large waterbodies, mainly in N. Breeding range is gradually extending S; also introduced in places (notably Rutland Water). Passage migrants sometimes linger for a few days at fish-rich lakes and flooded gravel pits.
    157937.jpg
  • Swallow - Hirundo rustica. L 19cm. Recognised in flight by pointed wings and long tail streamers. Sexes are similar but male has longer tail streamers than female. Adult has blue-black upperparts and white underparts except for dark chest band and brick-red throat and forecrown. Juvenile is similar but has shorter tail streamers and buff throat. Voice Utters sharp vit call in flight; male sings twittering song, often from overhead wires near nest. Status Common and widespread in summer. Usually nests in villages and farmyards, half cup-shaped mud nest typically sited under eaves or in barn. Migrants congregate over freshwater and roost in reedbeds.
    157686.jpg
  • Grey Squirrel - Sciurus carolinensis - Skull showing deformity in incisors. Length 45-55cm Abundant rodent. Introduced to Britain, now the most familiar squirrel. Diet is omnivorous and renowned for its cunning in exploiting food sources. Adult has plump but elongated body and long bushy tail. Rounded ears lack ear tufts. Coat is mainly grizzled grey with whitish chest and belly. Some individuals are variably tinged with brown in summer. Utters teeth-smacking ‘tchack’ when alarmed. Native to North America, introduced here in 1876. Now widespread and common, its adaptability allowing it to thrive in woods, parks and gardens.
    155190.jpg
  • Osprey Pandion haliaetus W 145-160cm. The classic fish-eating raptor. Can look gull-like in flight but fishing technique is unmistakable: hovers, then plunges talons first into water. Sexes are similar. Adult has mainly brown upperparts, except for pale crown; underparts are mainly whitish with darker chest band. In flight from below, looks pale overall with dark carpal patches, dark band along base of flight feathers and dark terminal band on barred tail. Juvenile is similar to adult but darker markings are less distinct. Voice Utters various whistling calls. Status Migrant visitor, seldom seen far from water even on migration. Nests close to large waterbodies, mainly in N. Breeding range is gradually extending S; also introduced in places (notably Rutland Water). Passage migrants sometimes linger for a few days at fish-rich lakes and flooded gravel pits.
    154099.jpg
  • Long-tailed Skua Stercorarius longicaudus - second summer plumage. (L 36-42cm) recalls an Arctic Skua but is slimmer with much longer tail streamers in adult; long, pointed wings lack Arctic’s white patch. Adult has mainly grey-brown upperparts, dark cap and whitish neck and underparts; note faint yellow flush on cheeks. Juvenile is variably barred grey-brown, palest on nape and chest. Look for it during storms on Outer Hebrides in spring, Cornish coasts in autumn.
    154231.jpg
  • Harvest Mouse Micromys minutus Length 10-15cm Britain’s smallest rodent. In summer, constructs a tennis ball-sized spherical nest, woven among grass stems. Adult has tiny, compact body. Coat is mainly golden brown but throat, chest and belly are white. Ears are rounded and feet possess a good grip, essential for climbing; prehensile tail serves as fifth limb in this regard. Mostly silent. Once widespread and common (in England at least) in arable fields but now much reduced and confined to wildlife-managed meadows, bramble patches and dry reedbeds.
    100256.jpg
  • Grey Squirrel Sciurus carolinensis Length 45-55cm Abundant rodent. Introduced to Britain, now the most familiar squirrel. Diet is omnivorous and renowned for its cunning in exploiting food sources. Adult has plump but elongated body and long bushy tail. Rounded ears lack ear tufts. Coat is mainly grizzled grey with whitish chest and belly. Some individuals are variably tinged with brown in summer. Utters teeth-smacking ‘tchack’ when alarmed. Native to North America, introduced here in 1876. Now widespread and common, its adaptability allowing it to thrive in woods, parks and gardens.
    102208.jpg
  • Grey Squirrel Sciurus carolinensis Length 45-55cm Abundant rodent. Introduced to Britain, now the most familiar squirrel. Diet is omnivorous and renowned for its cunning in exploiting food sources. Adult has plump but elongated body and long bushy tail. Rounded ears lack ear tufts. Coat is mainly grizzled grey with whitish chest and belly. Some individuals are variably tinged with brown in summer. Utters teeth-smacking ‘tchack’ when alarmed. Native to North America, introduced here in 1876. Now widespread and common, its adaptability allowing it to thrive in woods, parks and gardens.
    111661.jpg
  • Muntjac Muntiacus reevesi Shoulder height 38-45cm Tiny, unobtrusive deer. Territorial and mainly solitary. Browses low vegetation. Adult is mainly reddish brown coat with whitish chest and belly. Has large head (with converging dark stripes on forehead) and short legs. Tail is long, reddish brown above but whitish below; conspicuous when raised in alarm. Male (buck) develops tusk-like upper canine teeth; antlers appear in autumn, shed the following summer. Female (doe) does not grow antlers. Fawn is tiny and reddish brown with white spots. Utters a piercing bark. Introduced from Far East, now locally common in scrub, woods and gardens.
    112520.jpg
  • Bank Vole Clethrionomys glareolus Length 13-17cm Plump, richly coloured vole. Makes underground nest and radiating shallow tunnel network; forages for seeds and fruits above ground. Adult has compact body and mainly reddish brown fur, paler and greyer on chest and belly. Relative to Field Vole, has large ears and long tail. Island ssp. are larger and heavier than mainland animals. Squeaks if alarmed. Common in deciduous woodland, hedgerows and field margins.
    113241.jpg
  • Harvest Mouse Micromys minutus Length 10-15cm Britain’s smallest rodent. In summer, constructs a tennis ball-sized spherical nest, woven among grass stems. Adult has tiny, compact body. Coat is mainly golden brown but throat, chest and belly are white. Ears are rounded and feet possess a good grip, essential for climbing; prehensile tail serves as fifth limb in this regard. Mostly silent. Once widespread and common (in England at least) in arable fields but now much reduced and confined to wildlife-managed meadows, bramble patches and dry reedbeds.
    113577.jpg
  • Harvest Mouse Micromys minutus Length 10-15cm Britain’s smallest rodent. In summer, constructs a tennis ball-sized spherical nest, woven among grass stems. Adult has tiny, compact body. Coat is mainly golden brown but throat, chest and belly are white. Ears are rounded and feet possess a good grip, essential for climbing; prehensile tail serves as fifth limb in this regard. Mostly silent. Once widespread and common (in England at least) in arable fields but now much reduced and confined to wildlife-managed meadows, bramble patches and dry reedbeds.
    114175.jpg
  • Harvest Mouse Micromys minutus Length 10-15cm Britain’s smallest rodent. In summer, constructs a tennis ball-sized spherical nest, woven among grass stems. Adult has tiny, compact body. Coat is mainly golden brown but throat, chest and belly are white. Ears are rounded and feet possess a good grip, essential for climbing; prehensile tail serves as fifth limb in this regard. Mostly silent. Once widespread and common (in England at least) in arable fields but now much reduced and confined to wildlife-managed meadows, bramble patches and dry reedbeds.
    114446.jpg
  • Short-tailed Vole (Field Vole) Microtus agrestis Length 11-16cm Locally abundant grassland rodent. Makes network of concealed surface runways and tunnels just below surface of soil, or through compacted roots of grasses. Diet comprises mainly grass roots. Adult has plump body and a relatively shorter tail and smaller ears than Bank Vole. Coat colour is mainly grey brown, palest on chest and belly. Utters shrill squeaks in alarm. Common in grassy habitats ranging from lowland meadows to upland moors. Widespread but absent from Ireland and most islands.
    123059.jpg
  • Short-tailed Vole (Field Vole) Microtus agrestis Length 11-16cm Locally abundant grassland rodent. Makes network of concealed surface runways and tunnels just below surface of soil, or through compacted roots of grasses. Diet comprises mainly grass roots. Adult has plump body and a relatively shorter tail and smaller ears than Bank Vole. Coat colour is mainly grey brown, palest on chest and belly. Utters shrill squeaks in alarm. Common in grassy habitats ranging from lowland meadows to upland moors. Widespread but absent from Ireland and most islands.
    123605.jpg
  • Muntjac Muntiacus reevesi Shoulder height 38-45cm Tiny, unobtrusive deer. Territorial and mainly solitary. Browses low vegetation. Adult is mainly reddish brown coat with whitish chest and belly. Has large head (with converging dark stripes on forehead) and short legs. Tail is long, reddish brown above but whitish below; conspicuous when raised in alarm. Male (buck) develops tusk-like upper canine teeth; antlers appear in autumn, shed the following summer. Female (doe) does not grow antlers. Fawn is tiny and reddish brown with white spots. Utters a piercing bark. Introduced from Far East, now locally common in scrub, woods and gardens.
    128256.jpg
  • Grey Squirrel Sciurus carolinensis Length 45-55cm Abundant rodent. Introduced to Britain, now the most familiar squirrel. Diet is omnivorous and renowned for its cunning in exploiting food sources. Adult has plump but elongated body and long bushy tail. Rounded ears lack ear tufts. Coat is mainly grizzled grey with whitish chest and belly. Some individuals are variably tinged with brown in summer. Utters teeth-smacking ‘tchack’ when alarmed. Native to North America, introduced here in 1876. Now widespread and common, its adaptability allowing it to thrive in woods, parks and gardens.
    128989.jpg
  • Muntjac Muntiacus reevesi Shoulder height 38-45cm Tiny, unobtrusive deer. Territorial and mainly solitary. Browses low vegetation. Adult is mainly reddish brown coat with whitish chest and belly. Has large head (with converging dark stripes on forehead) and short legs. Tail is long, reddish brown above but whitish below; conspicuous when raised in alarm. Male (buck) develops tusk-like upper canine teeth; antlers appear in autumn, shed the following summer. Female (doe) does not grow antlers. Fawn is tiny and reddish brown with white spots. Utters a piercing bark. Introduced from Far East, now locally common in scrub, woods and gardens.
    143207.jpg
  • Bank Vole Clethrionomys glareolus Length 13-17cm Plump, richly coloured vole. Makes underground nest and radiating shallow tunnel network; forages for seeds and fruits above ground. Adult has compact body and mainly reddish brown fur, paler and greyer on chest and belly. Relative to Field Vole, has large ears and long tail. Island ssp. are larger and heavier than mainland animals. Squeaks if alarmed. Common in deciduous woodland, hedgerows and field margins.
    144245.jpg
  • Bank Vole Clethrionomys glareolus Length 13-17cm Plump, richly coloured vole. Makes underground nest and radiating shallow tunnel network; forages for seeds and fruits above ground. Adult has compact body and mainly reddish brown fur, paler and greyer on chest and belly. Relative to Field Vole, has large ears and long tail. Island ssp. are larger and heavier than mainland animals. Squeaks if alarmed. Common in deciduous woodland, hedgerows and field margins.
    144246.jpg
  • Muntjac Muntiacus reevesi Shoulder height 38-45cm Tiny, unobtrusive deer. Territorial and mainly solitary. Browses low vegetation. Adult is mainly reddish brown coat with whitish chest and belly. Has large head (with converging dark stripes on forehead) and short legs. Tail is long, reddish brown above but whitish below; conspicuous when raised in alarm. Male (buck) develops tusk-like upper canine teeth; antlers appear in autumn, shed the following summer. Female (doe) does not grow antlers. Fawn is tiny and reddish brown with white spots. Utters a piercing bark. Introduced from Far East, now locally common in scrub, woods and gardens.
    144335.jpg
  • Grey Squirrel Sciurus carolinensis Length 45-55cm Abundant rodent. Introduced to Britain, now the most familiar squirrel. Diet is omnivorous and renowned for its cunning in exploiting food sources. Adult has plump but elongated body and long bushy tail. Rounded ears lack ear tufts. Coat is mainly grizzled grey with whitish chest and belly. Some individuals are variably tinged with brown in summer. Utters teeth-smacking ‘tchack’ when alarmed. Native to North America, introduced here in 1876. Now widespread and common, its adaptability allowing it to thrive in woods, parks and gardens.
    145066.jpg
  • Grey Squirrel Sciurus carolinensis Length 45-55cm Abundant rodent. Introduced to Britain, now the most familiar squirrel. Diet is omnivorous and renowned for its cunning in exploiting food sources. Adult has plump but elongated body and long bushy tail. Rounded ears lack ear tufts. Coat is mainly grizzled grey with whitish chest and belly. Some individuals are variably tinged with brown in summer. Utters teeth-smacking ‘tchack’ when alarmed. Native to North America, introduced here in 1876. Now widespread and common, its adaptability allowing it to thrive in woods, parks and gardens.
    145852.jpg
  • Swallow Hirundo rustica L 19cm. Recognised in flight by pointed wings and long tail streamers. Sexes are similar but male has longer tail streamers than female. Adult has blue-black upperparts and white underparts except for dark chest band and brick-red throat and forecrown. Juvenile is similar but has shorter tail streamers and buff throat. Voice Utters sharp vit call in flight; male sings twittering song, often from overhead wires near nest. Status Common and widespread in summer. Usually nests in villages and farmyards, half cup-shaped mud nest typically sited under eaves or in barn. Migrants congregate over freshwater and roost in reedbeds.
    123953.jpg
  • Swallow Hirundo rustica L 19cm. Recognised in flight by pointed wings and long tail streamers. Sexes are similar but male has longer tail streamers than female. Adult has blue-black upperparts and white underparts except for dark chest band and brick-red throat and forecrown. Juvenile is similar but has shorter tail streamers and buff throat. Voice Utters sharp vit call in flight; male sings twittering song, often from overhead wires near nest. Status Common and widespread in summer. Usually nests in villages and farmyards, half cup-shaped mud nest typically sited under eaves or in barn. Migrants congregate over freshwater and roost in reedbeds.
    127177.jpg
  • Osprey Pandion haliaetus W 145-160cm. The classic fish-eating raptor. Can look gull-like in flight but fishing technique is unmistakable: hovers, then plunges talons first into water. Sexes are similar. Adult has mainly brown upperparts, except for pale crown; underparts are mainly whitish with darker chest band. In flight from below, looks pale overall with dark carpal patches, dark band along base of flight feathers and dark terminal band on barred tail. Juvenile is similar to adult but darker markings are less distinct. Voice Utters various whistling calls. Status Migrant visitor, seldom seen far from water even on migration. Nests close to large waterbodies, mainly in N. Breeding range is gradually extending S; also introduced in places (notably Rutland Water). Passage migrants sometimes linger for a few days at fish-rich lakes and flooded gravel pits.
    127980.jpg
  • Osprey Pandion haliaetus W 145-160cm. The classic fish-eating raptor. Can look gull-like in flight but fishing technique is unmistakable: hovers, then plunges talons first into water. Sexes are similar. Adult has mainly brown upperparts, except for pale crown; underparts are mainly whitish with darker chest band. In flight from below, looks pale overall with dark carpal patches, dark band along base of flight feathers and dark terminal band on barred tail. Juvenile is similar to adult but darker markings are less distinct. Voice Utters various whistling calls. Status Migrant visitor, seldom seen far from water even on migration. Nests close to large waterbodies, mainly in N. Breeding range is gradually extending S; also introduced in places (notably Rutland Water). Passage migrants sometimes linger for a few days at fish-rich lakes and flooded gravel pits.
    127981.jpg
  • Swallow Hirundo rustica L 19cm. Recognised in flight by pointed wings and long tail streamers. Sexes are similar but male has longer tail streamers than female. Adult has blue-black upperparts and white underparts except for dark chest band and brick-red throat and forecrown. Juvenile is similar but has shorter tail streamers and buff throat. Voice Utters sharp vit call in flight; male sings twittering song, often from overhead wires near nest. Status Common and widespread in summer. Usually nests in villages and farmyards, half cup-shaped mud nest typically sited under eaves or in barn. Migrants congregate over freshwater and roost in reedbeds.
    129175.jpg
  • Long-tailed Skua Stercorarius. longicaudus (L 36-42cm) recalls an Arctic Skua but is slimmer with much longer tail streamers in adult; long, pointed wings lack Arctic’s white patch. Adult has mainly grey-brown upperparts, dark cap and whitish neck and underparts; note faint yellow flush on cheeks. Juvenile is variably barred grey-brown, palest on nape and chest. Look for it during storms on Outer Hebrides in spring, Cornish coasts in autumn.
    133422.jpg
  • Long-tailed Skua Stercorarius. longicaudus (L 36-42cm) recalls an Arctic Skua but is slimmer with much longer tail streamers in adult; long, pointed wings lack Arctic’s white patch. Adult has mainly grey-brown upperparts, dark cap and whitish neck and underparts; note faint yellow flush on cheeks. Juvenile is variably barred grey-brown, palest on nape and chest. Look for it during storms on Outer Hebrides in spring, Cornish coasts in autumn.
    137622.jpg
  • Long-tailed Skua Stercorarius. longicaudus (L 36-42cm) recalls an Arctic Skua but is slimmer with much longer tail streamers in adult; long, pointed wings lack Arctic’s white patch. Adult has mainly grey-brown upperparts, dark cap and whitish neck and underparts; note faint yellow flush on cheeks. Juvenile is variably barred grey-brown, palest on nape and chest. Look for it during storms on Outer Hebrides in spring, Cornish coasts in autumn.
    141936.jpg
  • Swallow Hirundo rustica L 19cm. Recognised in flight by pointed wings and long tail streamers. Sexes are similar but male has longer tail streamers than female. Adult has blue-black upperparts and white underparts except for dark chest band and brick-red throat and forecrown. Juvenile is similar but has shorter tail streamers and buff throat. Voice Utters sharp vit call in flight; male sings twittering song, often from overhead wires near nest. Status Common and widespread in summer. Usually nests in villages and farmyards, half cup-shaped mud nest typically sited under eaves or in barn. Migrants congregate over freshwater and roost in reedbeds.
    143096.jpg
  • Osprey Pandion halieaetus W 145-160cm. The classic fish-eating raptor. Can look gull-like in flight but fishing technique is unmistakable: hovers, then plunges talons first into water. Sexes are similar. Adult has mainly brown upperparts, except for pale crown; underparts are mainly whitish with darker chest band. In flight from below, looks pale overall with dark carpal patches, dark band along base of flight feathers and dark terminal band on barred tail. Juvenile is similar to adult but darker markings are less distinct. Voice Utters various whistling calls. Status Migrant visitor, seldom seen far from water even on migration. Nests close to large waterbodies, mainly in N. Breeding range is gradually extending S; also introduced in places (notably Rutland Water). Passage migrants sometimes linger for a few days at fish-rich lakes and flooded gravel pits.
    143445.jpg
  • Osprey Pandion halieaetus W 145-160cm. The classic fish-eating raptor. Can look gull-like in flight but fishing technique is unmistakable: hovers, then plunges talons first into water. Sexes are similar. Adult has mainly brown upperparts, except for pale crown; underparts are mainly whitish with darker chest band. In flight from below, looks pale overall with dark carpal patches, dark band along base of flight feathers and dark terminal band on barred tail. Juvenile is similar to adult but darker markings are less distinct. Voice Utters various whistling calls. Status Migrant visitor, seldom seen far from water even on migration. Nests close to large waterbodies, mainly in N. Breeding range is gradually extending S; also introduced in places (notably Rutland Water). Passage migrants sometimes linger for a few days at fish-rich lakes and flooded gravel pits.
    143706.jpg
  • Swallow Hirundo rustica L 19cm. Recognised in flight by pointed wings and long tail streamers. Sexes are similar but male has longer tail streamers than female. Adult has blue-black upperparts and white underparts except for dark chest band and brick-red throat and forecrown. Juvenile is similar but has shorter tail streamers and buff throat. Voice Utters sharp vit call in flight; male sings twittering song, often from overhead wires near nest. Status Common and widespread in summer. Usually nests in villages and farmyards, half cup-shaped mud nest typically sited under eaves or in barn. Migrants congregate over freshwater and roost in reedbeds.
    143848.jpg
  • Osprey Pandion halieaetus W 145-160cm. The classic fish-eating raptor. Can look gull-like in flight but fishing technique is unmistakable: hovers, then plunges talons first into water. Sexes are similar. Adult has mainly brown upperparts, except for pale crown; underparts are mainly whitish with darker chest band. In flight from below, looks pale overall with dark carpal patches, dark band along base of flight feathers and dark terminal band on barred tail. Juvenile is similar to adult but darker markings are less distinct. Voice Utters various whistling calls. Status Migrant visitor, seldom seen far from water even on migration. Nests close to large waterbodies, mainly in N. Breeding range is gradually extending S; also introduced in places (notably Rutland Water). Passage migrants sometimes linger for a few days at fish-rich lakes and flooded gravel pits.
    143993.jpg
  • Osprey Pandion halieaetus W 145-160cm. The classic fish-eating raptor. Can look gull-like in flight but fishing technique is unmistakable: hovers, then plunges talons first into water. Sexes are similar. Adult has mainly brown upperparts, except for pale crown; underparts are mainly whitish with darker chest band. In flight from below, looks pale overall with dark carpal patches, dark band along base of flight feathers and dark terminal band on barred tail. Juvenile is similar to adult but darker markings are less distinct. Voice Utters various whistling calls. Status Migrant visitor, seldom seen far from water even on migration. Nests close to large waterbodies, mainly in N. Breeding range is gradually extending S; also introduced in places (notably Rutland Water). Passage migrants sometimes linger for a few days at fish-rich lakes and flooded gravel pits.
    145820.jpg
  • Swallow Hirundo rustica L 19cm. Recognised in flight by pointed wings and long tail streamers. Sexes are similar but male has longer tail streamers than female. Adult has blue-black upperparts and white underparts except for dark chest band and brick-red throat and forecrown. Juvenile is similar but has shorter tail streamers and buff throat. Voice Utters sharp vit call in flight; male sings twittering song, often from overhead wires near nest. Status Common and widespread in summer. Usually nests in villages and farmyards, half cup-shaped mud nest typically sited under eaves or in barn. Migrants congregate over freshwater and roost in reedbeds.
    145842.jpg
  • Swallow - Hirundo rustica. L 19cm. Recognised in flight by pointed wings and long tail streamers. Sexes are similar but male has longer tail streamers than female. Adult has blue-black upperparts and white underparts except for dark chest band and brick-red throat and forecrown. Juvenile is similar but has shorter tail streamers and buff throat. Voice Utters sharp vit call in flight; male sings twittering song, often from overhead wires near nest. Status Common and widespread in summer. Usually nests in villages and farmyards, half cup-shaped mud nest typically sited under eaves or in barn. Migrants congregate over freshwater and roost in reedbeds.
    157716.jpg
  • Swallow Hirundo rustica L 19cm. Recognised in flight by pointed wings and long tail streamers. Sexes are similar but male has longer tail streamers than female. Adult has blue-black upperparts and white underparts except for dark chest band and brick-red throat and forecrown. Juvenile is similar but has shorter tail streamers and buff throat. Voice Utters sharp vit call in flight; male sings twittering song, often from overhead wires near nest. Status Common and widespread in summer. Usually nests in villages and farmyards, half cup-shaped mud nest typically sited under eaves or in barn. Migrants congregate over freshwater and roost in reedbeds.
    156451.jpg
  • Long-tailed Skua - Stercorarius longicaudus - Juvenile. (L 36-42cm) recalls an Arctic Skua but is slimmer with much longer tail streamers in adult; long, pointed wings lack Arctic’s white patch. Adult has mainly grey-brown upperparts, dark cap and whitish neck and underparts; note faint yellow flush on cheeks. Juvenile is variably barred grey-brown, palest on nape and chest. Look for it during storms on Outer Hebrides in spring, Cornish coasts in autumn.
    154380.jpg
  • Long-tailed Skua Stercorarius. longicaudus (L 36-42cm) recalls an Arctic Skua but is slimmer with much longer tail streamers in adult; long, pointed wings lack Arctic’s white patch. Adult has mainly grey-brown upperparts, dark cap and whitish neck and underparts; note faint yellow flush on cheeks. Juvenile is variably barred grey-brown, palest on nape and chest. Look for it during storms on Outer Hebrides in spring, Cornish coasts in autumn.
    154080.jpg
  • Osprey Pandion haliaetus W 145-160cm. The classic fish-eating raptor. Can look gull-like in flight but fishing technique is unmistakable: hovers, then plunges talons first into water. Sexes are similar. Adult has mainly brown upperparts, except for pale crown; underparts are mainly whitish with darker chest band. In flight from below, looks pale overall with dark carpal patches, dark band along base of flight feathers and dark terminal band on barred tail. Juvenile is similar to adult but darker markings are less distinct. Voice Utters various whistling calls. Status Migrant visitor, seldom seen far from water even on migration. Nests close to large waterbodies, mainly in N. Breeding range is gradually extending S; also introduced in places (notably Rutland Water). Passage migrants sometimes linger for a few days at fish-rich lakes and flooded gravel pits.
    154100.jpg
  • Osprey Pandion haliaetus W 145-160cm. The classic fish-eating raptor. Can look gull-like in flight but fishing technique is unmistakable: hovers, then plunges talons first into water. Sexes are similar. Adult has mainly brown upperparts, except for pale crown; underparts are mainly whitish with darker chest band. In flight from below, looks pale overall with dark carpal patches, dark band along base of flight feathers and dark terminal band on barred tail. Juvenile is similar to adult but darker markings are less distinct. Voice Utters various whistling calls. Status Migrant visitor, seldom seen far from water even on migration. Nests close to large waterbodies, mainly in N. Breeding range is gradually extending S; also introduced in places (notably Rutland Water). Passage migrants sometimes linger for a few days at fish-rich lakes and flooded gravel pits.
    154101.jpg
  • Long-tailed Skua Stercorarius longicaudus. (L 36-42cm) recalls an Arctic Skua but is slimmer with much longer tail streamers in adult; long, pointed wings lack Arctic’s white patch. Adult has mainly grey-brown upperparts, dark cap and whitish neck and underparts; note faint yellow flush on cheeks. Juvenile is variably barred grey-brown, palest on nape and chest. Look for it during storms on Outer Hebrides in spring, Cornish coasts in autumn.
    154232.jpg
  • Bank Vole Clethrionomys glareolus Length 13-17cm Plump, richly coloured vole. Makes underground nest and radiating shallow tunnel network; forages for seeds and fruits above ground. Adult has compact body and mainly reddish brown fur, paler and greyer on chest and belly. Relative to Field Vole, has large ears and long tail. Island ssp. are larger and heavier than mainland animals. Squeaks if alarmed. Common in deciduous woodland, hedgerows and field margins.
    102195.jpg
  • Muntjac Muntiacus reevesi Shoulder height 38-45cm Tiny, unobtrusive deer. Territorial and mainly solitary. Browses low vegetation. Adult is mainly reddish brown coat with whitish chest and belly. Has large head (with converging dark stripes on forehead) and short legs. Tail is long, reddish brown above but whitish below; conspicuous when raised in alarm. Male (buck) develops tusk-like upper canine teeth; antlers appear in autumn, shed the following summer. Female (doe) does not grow antlers. Fawn is tiny and reddish brown with white spots. Utters a piercing bark. Introduced from Far East, now locally common in scrub, woods and gardens.
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  • Bank Vole Clethrionomys glareolus Length 13-17cm Plump, richly coloured vole. Makes underground nest and radiating shallow tunnel network; forages for seeds and fruits above ground. Adult has compact body and mainly reddish brown fur, paler and greyer on chest and belly. Relative to Field Vole, has large ears and long tail. Island ssp. are larger and heavier than mainland animals. Squeaks if alarmed. Common in deciduous woodland, hedgerows and field margins.
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  • Grey Squirrel Sciurus carolinensis Length 45-55cm Abundant rodent. Introduced to Britain, now the most familiar squirrel. Diet is omnivorous and renowned for its cunning in exploiting food sources. Adult has plump but elongated body and long bushy tail. Rounded ears lack ear tufts. Coat is mainly grizzled grey with whitish chest and belly. Some individuals are variably tinged with brown in summer. Utters teeth-smacking ‘tchack’ when alarmed. Native to North America, introduced here in 1876. Now widespread and common, its adaptability allowing it to thrive in woods, parks and gardens.
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  • Harvest Mouse Micromys minutus Length 10-15cm Britain’s smallest rodent. In summer, constructs a tennis ball-sized spherical nest, woven among grass stems. Adult has tiny, compact body. Coat is mainly golden brown but throat, chest and belly are white. Ears are rounded and feet possess a good grip, essential for climbing; prehensile tail serves as fifth limb in this regard. Mostly silent. Once widespread and common (in England at least) in arable fields but now much reduced and confined to wildlife-managed meadows, bramble patches and dry reedbeds.
    127593.jpg
  • Bank Vole Clethrionomys glareolus Length 13-17cm Plump, richly coloured vole. Makes underground nest and radiating shallow tunnel network; forages for seeds and fruits above ground. Adult has compact body and mainly reddish brown fur, paler and greyer on chest and belly. Relative to Field Vole, has large ears and long tail. Island ssp. are larger and heavier than mainland animals. Squeaks if alarmed. Common in deciduous woodland, hedgerows and field margins.
    127917.jpg
  • Harvest Mouse Micromys minutus Length 10-15cm Britain’s smallest rodent. In summer, constructs a tennis ball-sized spherical nest, woven among grass stems. Adult has tiny, compact body. Coat is mainly golden brown but throat, chest and belly are white. Ears are rounded and feet possess a good grip, essential for climbing; prehensile tail serves as fifth limb in this regard. Mostly silent. Once widespread and common (in England at least) in arable fields but now much reduced and confined to wildlife-managed meadows, bramble patches and dry reedbeds.
    128232.jpg
  • Grey Squirrel Sciurus carolinensis Length 45-55cm Abundant rodent. Introduced to Britain, now the most familiar squirrel. Diet is omnivorous and renowned for its cunning in exploiting food sources. Adult has plump but elongated body and long bushy tail. Rounded ears lack ear tufts. Coat is mainly grizzled grey with whitish chest and belly. Some individuals are variably tinged with brown in summer. Utters teeth-smacking ‘tchack’ when alarmed. Native to North America, introduced here in 1876. Now widespread and common, its adaptability allowing it to thrive in woods, parks and gardens.
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  • Short-tailed Vole (Field Vole) Microtus agrestis Length 11-16cm Locally abundant grassland rodent. Makes network of concealed surface runways and tunnels just below surface of soil, or through compacted roots of grasses. Diet comprises mainly grass roots. Adult has plump body and a relatively shorter tail and smaller ears than Bank Vole. Coat colour is mainly grey brown, palest on chest and belly. Utters shrill squeaks in alarm. Common in grassy habitats ranging from lowland meadows to upland moors. Widespread but absent from Ireland and most islands.
    128991.jpg
  • Grey Squirrel Sciurus carolinensis Length 45-55cm Abundant rodent. Introduced to Britain, now the most familiar squirrel. Diet is omnivorous and renowned for its cunning in exploiting food sources. Adult has plump but elongated body and long bushy tail. Rounded ears lack ear tufts. Coat is mainly grizzled grey with whitish chest and belly. Some individuals are variably tinged with brown in summer. Utters teeth-smacking ‘tchack’ when alarmed. Native to North America, introduced here in 1876. Now widespread and common, its adaptability allowing it to thrive in woods, parks and gardens.
    133158.jpg
  • Grey Squirrel Sciurus carolinensis Length 45-55cm Abundant rodent. Introduced to Britain, now the most familiar squirrel. Diet is omnivorous and renowned for its cunning in exploiting food sources. Adult has plump but elongated body and long bushy tail. Rounded ears lack ear tufts. Coat is mainly grizzled grey with whitish chest and belly. Some individuals are variably tinged with brown in summer. Utters teeth-smacking ‘tchack’ when alarmed. Native to North America, introduced here in 1876. Now widespread and common, its adaptability allowing it to thrive in woods, parks and gardens.
    135518.jpg
  • Grey Squirrel Sciurus carolinensis Length 45-55cm Abundant rodent. Introduced to Britain, now the most familiar squirrel. Diet is omnivorous and renowned for its cunning in exploiting food sources. Adult has plump but elongated body and long bushy tail. Rounded ears lack ear tufts. Coat is mainly grizzled grey with whitish chest and belly. Some individuals are variably tinged with brown in summer. Utters teeth-smacking ‘tchack’ when alarmed. Native to North America, introduced here in 1876. Now widespread and common, its adaptability allowing it to thrive in woods, parks and gardens.
    137001.jpg
  • Bank Vole Clethrionomys glareolus Length 13-17cm Plump, richly coloured vole. Makes underground nest and radiating shallow tunnel network; forages for seeds and fruits above ground. Adult has compact body and mainly reddish brown fur, paler and greyer on chest and belly. Relative to Field Vole, has large ears and long tail. Island ssp. are larger and heavier than mainland animals. Squeaks if alarmed. Common in deciduous woodland, hedgerows and field margins.
    140260.jpg
  • Grey Squirrel Sciurus carolinensis Length 45-55cm Abundant rodent. Introduced to Britain, now the most familiar squirrel. Diet is omnivorous and renowned for its cunning in exploiting food sources. Adult has plump but elongated body and long bushy tail. Rounded ears lack ear tufts. Coat is mainly grizzled grey with whitish chest and belly. Some individuals are variably tinged with brown in summer. Utters teeth-smacking ‘tchack’ when alarmed. Native to North America, introduced here in 1876. Now widespread and common, its adaptability allowing it to thrive in woods, parks and gardens.
    144316.jpg
  • Grey Squirrel Sciurus carolinensis Length 45-55cm Abundant rodent. Introduced to Britain, now the most familiar squirrel. Diet is omnivorous and renowned for its cunning in exploiting food sources. Adult has plump but elongated body and long bushy tail. Rounded ears lack ear tufts. Coat is mainly grizzled grey with whitish chest and belly. Some individuals are variably tinged with brown in summer. Utters teeth-smacking ‘tchack’ when alarmed. Native to North America, introduced here in 1876. Now widespread and common, its adaptability allowing it to thrive in woods, parks and gardens.
    144317.jpg
  • Muntjac Muntiacus reevesi Shoulder height 38-45cm Tiny, unobtrusive deer. Territorial and mainly solitary. Browses low vegetation. Adult is mainly reddish brown coat with whitish chest and belly. Has large head (with converging dark stripes on forehead) and short legs. Tail is long, reddish brown above but whitish below; conspicuous when raised in alarm. Male (buck) develops tusk-like upper canine teeth; antlers appear in autumn, shed the following summer. Female (doe) does not grow antlers. Fawn is tiny and reddish brown with white spots. Utters a piercing bark. Introduced from Far East, now locally common in scrub, woods and gardens.
    144334.jpg
  • Short-tailed Vole (Field Vole) Microtus agrestis Length 11-16cm Locally abundant grassland rodent. Makes network of concealed surface runways and tunnels just below surface of soil, or through compacted roots of grasses. Diet comprises mainly grass roots. Adult has plump body and a relatively shorter tail and smaller ears than Bank Vole. Coat colour is mainly grey brown, palest on chest and belly. Utters shrill squeaks in alarm. Common in grassy habitats ranging from lowland meadows to upland moors. Widespread but absent from Ireland and most islands.
    144398.jpg
  • Bank Vole Clethrionomys glareolus Length 13-17cm Plump, richly coloured vole. Makes underground nest and radiating shallow tunnel network; forages for seeds and fruits above ground. Adult has compact body and mainly reddish brown fur, paler and greyer on chest and belly. Relative to Field Vole, has large ears and long tail. Island ssp. are larger and heavier than mainland animals. Squeaks if alarmed. Common in deciduous woodland, hedgerows and field margins.
    144750.jpg
  • Grey Squirrel Sciurus carolinensis Length 45-55cm Abundant rodent. Introduced to Britain, now the most familiar squirrel. Diet is omnivorous and renowned for its cunning in exploiting food sources. Adult has plump but elongated body and long bushy tail. Rounded ears lack ear tufts. Coat is mainly grizzled grey with whitish chest and belly. Some individuals are variably tinged with brown in summer. Utters teeth-smacking ‘tchack’ when alarmed. Native to North America, introduced here in 1876. Now widespread and common, its adaptability allowing it to thrive in woods, parks and gardens.
    145224.jpg
  • Osprey Pandion halieaetus W 145-160cm. The classic fish-eating raptor. Can look gull-like in flight but fishing technique is unmistakable: hovers, then plunges talons first into water. Sexes are similar. Adult has mainly brown upperparts, except for pale crown; underparts are mainly whitish with darker chest band. In flight from below, looks pale overall with dark carpal patches, dark band along base of flight feathers and dark terminal band on barred tail. Juvenile is similar to adult but darker markings are less distinct. Voice Utters various whistling calls. Status Migrant visitor, seldom seen far from water even on migration. Nests close to large waterbodies, mainly in N. Breeding range is gradually extending S; also introduced in places (notably Rutland Water). Passage migrants sometimes linger for a few days at fish-rich lakes and flooded gravel pits.
    133548.jpg
  • Osprey Pandion halieaetus W 145-160cm. The classic fish-eating raptor. Can look gull-like in flight but fishing technique is unmistakable: hovers, then plunges talons first into water. Sexes are similar. Adult has mainly brown upperparts, except for pale crown; underparts are mainly whitish with darker chest band. In flight from below, looks pale overall with dark carpal patches, dark band along base of flight feathers and dark terminal band on barred tail. Juvenile is similar to adult but darker markings are less distinct. Voice Utters various whistling calls. Status Migrant visitor, seldom seen far from water even on migration. Nests close to large waterbodies, mainly in N. Breeding range is gradually extending S; also introduced in places (notably Rutland Water). Passage migrants sometimes linger for a few days at fish-rich lakes and flooded gravel pits.
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  • Swallow Hirundo rustica L 19cm. Recognised in flight by pointed wings and long tail streamers. Sexes are similar but male has longer tail streamers than female. Adult has blue-black upperparts and white underparts except for dark chest band and brick-red throat and forecrown. Juvenile is similar but has shorter tail streamers and buff throat. Voice Utters sharp vit call in flight; male sings twittering song, often from overhead wires near nest. Status Common and widespread in summer. Usually nests in villages and farmyards, half cup-shaped mud nest typically sited under eaves or in barn. Migrants congregate over freshwater and roost in reedbeds.
    137335.jpg
  • Osprey Pandion halieaetus W 145-160cm. The classic fish-eating raptor. Can look gull-like in flight but fishing technique is unmistakable: hovers, then plunges talons first into water. Sexes are similar. Adult has mainly brown upperparts, except for pale crown; underparts are mainly whitish with darker chest band. In flight from below, looks pale overall with dark carpal patches, dark band along base of flight feathers and dark terminal band on barred tail. Juvenile is similar to adult but darker markings are less distinct. Voice Utters various whistling calls. Status Migrant visitor, seldom seen far from water even on migration. Nests close to large waterbodies, mainly in N. Breeding range is gradually extending S; also introduced in places (notably Rutland Water). Passage migrants sometimes linger for a few days at fish-rich lakes and flooded gravel pits.
    137581.jpg
  • Swallow Hirundo rustica L 19cm. Recognised in flight by pointed wings and long tail streamers. Sexes are similar but male has longer tail streamers than female. Adult has blue-black upperparts and white underparts except for dark chest band and brick-red throat and forecrown. Juvenile is similar but has shorter tail streamers and buff throat. Voice Utters sharp vit call in flight; male sings twittering song, often from overhead wires near nest. Status Common and widespread in summer. Usually nests in villages and farmyards, half cup-shaped mud nest typically sited under eaves or in barn. Migrants congregate over freshwater and roost in reedbeds.
    137770.jpg
  • Swallow Hirundo rustica L 19cm. Recognised in flight by pointed wings and long tail streamers. Sexes are similar but male has longer tail streamers than female. Adult has blue-black upperparts and white underparts except for dark chest band and brick-red throat and forecrown. Juvenile is similar but has shorter tail streamers and buff throat. Voice Utters sharp vit call in flight; male sings twittering song, often from overhead wires near nest. Status Common and widespread in summer. Usually nests in villages and farmyards, half cup-shaped mud nest typically sited under eaves or in barn. Migrants congregate over freshwater and roost in reedbeds.
    137771.jpg
  • Swallow Hirundo rustica L 19cm. Recognised in flight by pointed wings and long tail streamers. Sexes are similar but male has longer tail streamers than female. Adult has blue-black upperparts and white underparts except for dark chest band and brick-red throat and forecrown. Juvenile is similar but has shorter tail streamers and buff throat. Voice Utters sharp vit call in flight; male sings twittering song, often from overhead wires near nest. Status Common and widespread in summer. Usually nests in villages and farmyards, half cup-shaped mud nest typically sited under eaves or in barn. Migrants congregate over freshwater and roost in reedbeds.
    137772.jpg
  • Swallow Hirundo rustica L 19cm. Recognised in flight by pointed wings and long tail streamers. Sexes are similar but male has longer tail streamers than female. Adult has blue-black upperparts and white underparts except for dark chest band and brick-red throat and forecrown. Juvenile is similar but has shorter tail streamers and buff throat. Voice Utters sharp vit call in flight; male sings twittering song, often from overhead wires near nest. Status Common and widespread in summer. Usually nests in villages and farmyards, half cup-shaped mud nest typically sited under eaves or in barn. Migrants congregate over freshwater and roost in reedbeds.
    137893.jpg
  • Swallow Hirundo rustica L 19cm. Recognised in flight by pointed wings and long tail streamers. Sexes are similar but male has longer tail streamers than female. Adult has blue-black upperparts and white underparts except for dark chest band and brick-red throat and forecrown. Juvenile is similar but has shorter tail streamers and buff throat. Voice Utters sharp vit call in flight; male sings twittering song, often from overhead wires near nest. Status Common and widespread in summer. Usually nests in villages and farmyards, half cup-shaped mud nest typically sited under eaves or in barn. Migrants congregate over freshwater and roost in reedbeds.
    143324.jpg
  • Long-tailed Skua Stercorarius. longicaudus (L 36-42cm) recalls an Arctic Skua but is slimmer with much longer tail streamers in adult; long, pointed wings lack Arctic’s white patch. Adult has mainly grey-brown upperparts, dark cap and whitish neck and underparts; note faint yellow flush on cheeks. Juvenile is variably barred grey-brown, palest on nape and chest. Look for it during storms on Outer Hebrides in spring, Cornish coasts in autumn.
    143760.jpg
  • Osprey Pandion halieaetus W 145-160cm. The classic fish-eating raptor. Can look gull-like in flight but fishing technique is unmistakable: hovers, then plunges talons first into water. Sexes are similar. Adult has mainly brown upperparts, except for pale crown; underparts are mainly whitish with darker chest band. In flight from below, looks pale overall with dark carpal patches, dark band along base of flight feathers and dark terminal band on barred tail. Juvenile is similar to adult but darker markings are less distinct. Voice Utters various whistling calls. Status Migrant visitor, seldom seen far from water even on migration. Nests close to large waterbodies, mainly in N. Breeding range is gradually extending S; also introduced in places (notably Rutland Water). Passage migrants sometimes linger for a few days at fish-rich lakes and flooded gravel pits.
    143994.jpg
  • Osprey Pandion halieaetus W 145-160cm. The classic fish-eating raptor. Can look gull-like in flight but fishing technique is unmistakable: hovers, then plunges talons first into water. Sexes are similar. Adult has mainly brown upperparts, except for pale crown; underparts are mainly whitish with darker chest band. In flight from below, looks pale overall with dark carpal patches, dark band along base of flight feathers and dark terminal band on barred tail. Juvenile is similar to adult but darker markings are less distinct. Voice Utters various whistling calls. Status Migrant visitor, seldom seen far from water even on migration. Nests close to large waterbodies, mainly in N. Breeding range is gradually extending S; also introduced in places (notably Rutland Water). Passage migrants sometimes linger for a few days at fish-rich lakes and flooded gravel pits.
    143995.jpg
  • Swallow Hirundo rustica L 19cm. Recognised in flight by pointed wings and long tail streamers. Sexes are similar but male has longer tail streamers than female. Adult has blue-black upperparts and white underparts except for dark chest band and brick-red throat and forecrown. Juvenile is similar but has shorter tail streamers and buff throat. Voice Utters sharp vit call in flight; male sings twittering song, often from overhead wires near nest. Status Common and widespread in summer. Usually nests in villages and farmyards, half cup-shaped mud nest typically sited under eaves or in barn. Migrants congregate over freshwater and roost in reedbeds.
    144046.jpg
  • Swallow Hirundo rustica L 19cm. Recognised in flight by pointed wings and long tail streamers. Sexes are similar but male has longer tail streamers than female. Adult has blue-black upperparts and white underparts except for dark chest band and brick-red throat and forecrown. Juvenile is similar but has shorter tail streamers and buff throat. Voice Utters sharp vit call in flight; male sings twittering song, often from overhead wires near nest. Status Common and widespread in summer. Usually nests in villages and farmyards, half cup-shaped mud nest typically sited under eaves or in barn. Migrants congregate over freshwater and roost in reedbeds.
    144047.jpg
  • Swallow Hirundo rustica L 19cm. Recognised in flight by pointed wings and long tail streamers. Sexes are similar but male has longer tail streamers than female. Adult has blue-black upperparts and white underparts except for dark chest band and brick-red throat and forecrown. Juvenile is similar but has shorter tail streamers and buff throat. Voice Utters sharp vit call in flight; male sings twittering song, often from overhead wires near nest. Status Common and widespread in summer. Usually nests in villages and farmyards, half cup-shaped mud nest typically sited under eaves or in barn. Migrants congregate over freshwater and roost in reedbeds.
    144048.jpg
  • Osprey Pandion halieaetus W 145-160cm. The classic fish-eating raptor. Can look gull-like in flight but fishing technique is unmistakable: hovers, then plunges talons first into water. Sexes are similar. Adult has mainly brown upperparts, except for pale crown; underparts are mainly whitish with darker chest band. In flight from below, looks pale overall with dark carpal patches, dark band along base of flight feathers and dark terminal band on barred tail. Juvenile is similar to adult but darker markings are less distinct. Voice Utters various whistling calls. Status Migrant visitor, seldom seen far from water even on migration. Nests close to large waterbodies, mainly in N. Breeding range is gradually extending S; also introduced in places (notably Rutland Water). Passage migrants sometimes linger for a few days at fish-rich lakes and flooded gravel pits.
    145422.jpg
  • Long-tailed Skua Stercorarius longicaudus (L 36-42cm) recalls an Arctic Skua but is slimmer with much longer tail streamers in adult; long, pointed wings lack Arctic’s white patch. Adult has mainly grey-brown upperparts, dark cap and whitish neck and underparts; note faint yellow flush on cheeks. Juvenile is variably barred grey-brown, palest on nape and chest. Look for it during storms on Outer Hebrides in spring, Cornish coasts in autumn.
    145624.jpg
  • Osprey Pandion halieaetus W 145-160cm. The classic fish-eating raptor. Can look gull-like in flight but fishing technique is unmistakable: hovers, then plunges talons first into water. Sexes are similar. Adult has mainly brown upperparts, except for pale crown; underparts are mainly whitish with darker chest band. In flight from below, looks pale overall with dark carpal patches, dark band along base of flight feathers and dark terminal band on barred tail. Juvenile is similar to adult but darker markings are less distinct. Voice Utters various whistling calls. Status Migrant visitor, seldom seen far from water even on migration. Nests close to large waterbodies, mainly in N. Breeding range is gradually extending S; also introduced in places (notably Rutland Water). Passage migrants sometimes linger for a few days at fish-rich lakes and flooded gravel pits.
    135523.jpg