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
