(European) Bee-eater reported sightings have been common this year with mostly being frustrating flyovers. It's been a species I've only ever seen in Spain so when 6/7 had been found at a quarry south of Nottingham I quickly arranged an early departure from work. The
Squire & the Mayor of Warwick joined me for the pursuit up the M69. No
reports on RBA & the Major announcing he had dipped Bee-eaters five times
previously slightly dented our confidence.
The
birds were first spotted on 25 June at East Leake Cemex Quarry which has very
similar habitat at Salford Priors. Quickly parked up, a successful birder
pointed us down a bridleway where we past many happy punters returning to their
cars. The walk took about ten minutes to the prime spot where you viewed across
the quarry to a large ash tree where the birds were showing very well. Just
dropping off the large tree and catching dragon flies, bees and various other
insects with a few seconds. One of the pairs looked to be on very good terms
certainly giving hope they may nest in the quarry. Whilst the birds looked
totally stunning when sat on the tree when in flight they were just fantastic
to watch, some calling in flight .
A
crowd mixed between birders & locals enjoyed great views and a
viewing area with car park has been set up for birders seeking the best views
of the birds in the coming days if they stick around. This can be found at Lings Farm, LE12
6RG.
Colourful
and unmistakable, Bee-eaters are rare visitors to the UK and normally nest in
southern Europe. The last time they nested in the UK was 2015, when two pairs
set up home in a quarry in Cumbria. They have also nested on the Isle of Wight
(2014), Herefordshire (2005) and Country Durham (2002). These beautiful birds
may stay for the next couple of months should they breed.
A quick return journey to Worcestershire with Coldplay on
the IPOD rounded off a cracking jolly outing.
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