Hundreds of Glossy Ibis usually found in the Med spotted in the UK

"Boasting a long, curved bill and iridescent feathers, these heron-like birds are most commonly spotted on the Mediterranean coast. But the exotic Glossy Ibis has started breeding in the UK, experts have confirmed, with hundreds of birds recorded across Britain and Ireland. Birdwatchers have reported a huge influx of flocks, with the arrival breaking all modern records for the species."

"The elegant wading birds are occasional visitors to the UK, but increased sightings and a confirmed breeding pair in 2022 indicate they could soon be making a regular appearance. '25 years ago the species was considered something of a mega rarity in Britain, but the incidence of records has increased significantly since then,' Josh Jones, editor of Birdwatch magazine, said."

Glossy Ibis, heron-like waders with long curved bills and iridescent feathers, have started breeding in the UK with hundreds recorded across Britain and Ireland. Large influxes began earlier in the month, concentrated in south and southwest England, reaching 605 individuals recorded on 8 September. Sightings and a confirmed breeding pair in 2022 suggest the species could become a regular visitor. Many arriving birds are juveniles dispersing after leaving nests, and bird ringing shows many originate from southwest Spain. The species frequents wetlands and damp fields, probing mud for invertebrates and occasionally small amphibians.

Read at Mail Online