The UK’s birdlife isn’t just limited to robins and blackbirds, even if it often feels that way.
Britain also occasionally hosts some extraordinary exotic species, though you’ll have to be clever enough — and in the right place at the right time — to spot them. Many of these species only visit at certain times of year, while others only pass through particular areas of the country, and often ones where there aren’t many humans about. Still, if you’re passionate and persistent enough, you might be lucky enough to lay eyes on one of these beauties.
1. Eurasian Hoopoe (Upupa epops)
Known for its distinctive crown of feathers and bold black-and-white wing patterns, the Eurasian hoopoe isn’t something you see every day in the UK. These striking birds typically show up during spring and autumn migrations, often appearing when the weather is warmer. Their “hoo-hoo-hoo” call is as unique as their look, and it’s easy to spot them when they’re around. Hoopoes are a delight for birdwatchers, as they tend to prefer sandy or grassy habitats where they can forage for insects. The sight of one, with its eye-catching plumage, is like seeing a tiny piece of the Mediterranean right here in the UK. If you spot one, consider it a rare treat!
2. Glossy Ibis (Plegadis falcinellus)
The glossy ibis is a beauty with its shimmering iridescent feathers, glowing bronze and green in the sunlight. In recent years, this stunning bird has become a more frequent visitor to the UK, particularly in wetland areas. Climate change is partially behind this shift, with the bird expanding its range further north. These birds are graceful, often seen wading through the shallow waters of wetlands, and their increasing presence is proof of a changing environment. Seeing a glossy ibis in action is a reminder of how nature adapts and evolves, and the fact that it bred successfully in Cambridgeshire in 2022 makes it even more exciting for bird enthusiasts.
3. Bee-eater (Merops apiaster)
Vibrantly coloured, with a mix of turquoise, yellow, and chestnut, the bee-eater is another exotic species that might catch your eye if you’re lucky. While they’ve always been rare visitors to the UK, in recent years, bee-eaters have started to be spotted more frequently. Their unique behaviour of catching insects mid-flight is an impressive sight. These birds prefer open landscapes with sandy banks, where they dig burrows for nesting. Despite their colourful appearance, their presence in the UK adds a Mediterranean touch to our local birdlife. The fact that some bee-eaters have even attempted breeding in the UK shows just how adaptable they can be.
4. Red-backed Shrike (Lanius collurio)
Known as the “butcher bird” for its strange habit of impaling prey on thorns, the red-backed shrike is another rare sight in the UK, though it was once more common. Its occasional appearances during migration periods are a treat for birdwatchers, especially since this predatory songbird is known for its distinctive hunting behaviour. Although the red-backed shrike’s numbers have dwindled due to habitat loss, efforts to conserve its habitat in Europe may help boost its presence in the UK again. Spotting one is like seeing a fascinating piece of the natural world in action, and it’s an unforgettable experience for those lucky enough to catch a glimpse.
5. Wryneck (Jynx torquilla)
A type of woodpecker with an intriguing twist, the wryneck is named for its ability to twist its head almost 180 degrees. It’s a bird that’s not always easy to spot, as its cryptic plumage helps it blend in with tree bark. However, during migration, the wryneck can occasionally be seen in the UK, offering a rare and exciting opportunity for birdwatchers. While they can be tricky to find, their distinctive head movements and haunting call make them all the more intriguing when you do spot them. Their mysterious nature adds a touch of wonder to the UK’s birdwatching landscape.
6. Golden Oriole (Oriolus oriolus)
With its bright yellow and black plumage, the golden oriole is an eye-catching visitor, though it’s rarely seen. Preferring dense woodlands, golden orioles are more often heard than seen, with a beautiful fluting call that rings out from the treetops. They are shy, elusive birds that require large, undisturbed forests to thrive. Their rarity only adds to the magic of spotting one. If you’re lucky enough to hear their song while in the right woodland, it’s a moment of pure enchantment, as these birds’ calls carry a sense of peace and timelessness through the trees.
7. Rose-coloured Starling (Pastor roseus)
This bird is striking in more ways than one. The rose-coloured starling looks similar to the common starling but with a beautiful pink body and glossy black wings and head. Though it’s more of an occasional visitor, the rose-coloured starling can sometimes be spotted in the UK when Eastern Europe experiences harsh winters, forcing the birds to migrate. Their vibrant plumage makes them easy to spot among other, more muted species, and they tend to appear in large numbers during certain seasons. Their gregarious nature adds to their charm, making them a welcome sight in British gardens.
8. Alpine Swift (Tachymarptis melba)
Larger than the common swift and known for its stunning aerial abilities, the alpine swift is a rare visitor to the UK. These birds are incredible fliers, capable of staying airborne for months at a time without landing. They often appear in the UK during migration, and when they do, they’re a true spectacle for birdwatchers. Their graceful flight patterns and impressive endurance are truly something to witness, and their rarity in the UK makes them all the more desirable to spot. Catching sight of one is like being treated to a masterclass in avian flight.
9. Red-footed Falcon (Falco vespertinus)
A small raptor with stunning slate-grey plumage and distinct reddish legs, the red-footed falcon occasionally makes its way into the UK from Eastern Europe. These birds are known for their agile hunting style, often seen swooping through fields in search of insects to catch. Although they’re unpredictable in their visits, when they do appear, it’s a thrilling sight for birdwatchers. The red-footed falcon’s vivid colours and unique hunting behaviour make it a standout species. Watching one hunt gracefully through open fields is a rare treat and a reminder of how diverse the UK’s birdlife can be.
10. White Stork (Ciconia ciconia)
Known for its impressive size and folklore associations, the white stork is a rare visitor to the UK, though recent reintroduction efforts are increasing its chances of a comeback. Seeing one soaring high on thermal currents is an awe-inspiring sight. These majestic birds have been seen nesting on rooftops and tall poles in various parts of the UK. White storks are symbols of good fortune in many cultures, and their gradual return to the UK is seen as a hopeful sign. Their impressive nests are hard to miss, and watching them glide through the skies above is a truly remarkable experience.
11. Black-winged Stilt (Himantopus himantopus)
With long red legs and contrasting black-and-white plumage, the black-winged stilt adds an exotic touch to British wetlands when it appears. These elegant birds are often seen wading through shallow waters in search of food. Their presence is becoming more frequent in the UK, thanks to ongoing conservation efforts to protect wetland habitats. The black-winged stilt’s graceful movements and striking appearance make it a favourite among birdwatchers. Their increasing presence in British wetlands is a positive sign of the growing importance of habitat preservation.
12. Purple Heron (Ardea purpurea)
While similar to the grey heron, the purple heron has a more slender body and darker hues, making it a rare and fascinating visitor to the UK. Typically found in reedbeds during spring and summer, these birds are excellent at blending into their surroundings, making sightings quite special. The purple heron’s quiet, deliberate movements and striking colouration make it a memorable sight. It’s a rare treat to see one in the wild, and for birdwatchers, spotting this elusive bird is an unforgettable experience.
13. Hoopoe Lark (Alaemon alaudipes)
The hoopoe lark is a true rarity, only appearing in the UK on a handful of occasions. Native to deserts, it’s an exotic vagrant that reminds us just how diverse and far-reaching bird migration can be. With sandy colouring and a unique call, it’s a captivating sight for those lucky enough to spot it. The hoopoe lark’s appearance in the UK serves as a reminder of the extraordinary range of birdlife around the world. Its rare visits are celebrated by birdwatchers, as they offer a glimpse into the far-flung reaches of the avian world.
