Spotting British Summer Birds

Pied Avocet The warmer summer months mean that the British countryside is once again alive with activity from the animal kingdom. A number of species of bird in particular, can be seen throughout the country during the summer, either staying here for the duration to breed or simply stopping off to rest from their long migrations. Their distinctive appearance and indeed their songs, makes these birds a delight to try and spot.

Name: Avocet Size: 41cm (16in)Found: Suffolk, Norfolk, DevonHabitat: Marshes and estuariesDistinctive Feature: Long upturned beak

Name: Blackcap Size: 14cm (5.5in)Found: NorfolkHabitat: Woods, parks and gardensDistinctive Feature: Black headcap of males

Common Cuckoo Name: Cuckoo Size: 33cm (13in)Found: NorfolkHabitat: Countryside, farmland and moorlandDistinctive Feature: Long tail feathers

Name: Golden Oriole Size: 24cm (9.5in)Found: East AngliaHabitat: Broadleaf woodland and fensDistinctive Feature: Yellow and black plumage

Name: House Martin Size: 12.5cm (5in)Found: Throughout BritainHabitat: Nest in buildingsDistinctive Feature: White band at tail base

An Osprey Name: Osprey Size: 69cm (27in)Found: Southern EnglandHabitat: Wooded islands and lakesidesDistinctive Feature: Sharp, downcurved beak

Name: Swallow Size: 19cm (7.5in)Found: Throughout BritainHabitat: Open country near waterDistinctive Feature: Long forked tail feathers

Name: Swift Size: 17cm (6.5in)Found: Throughout BritainHabitat: Nest in buildingsDistinctive Feature: Long curved wings

Yellow Wagtail Name: Turtle Dove Size: 26cm (10in)Found: South and East EnglandHabitat: Woodland edges and open farmlandDistinctive Feature: Soft, purring song

Name: Yellow Wagtail Size: 17cm (6,5in)Found: Eastern and Central EnglandHabitat: Meadows and wetland edgesDistinctive Feature: Yellow underparts of male