Egrets in North West?

[ogwen]

I was out in parkgate this weekend watching the herons in the marshes and a kestrel getting mobbed by crows when I saw a large white bird flying past. To me, studying my bird book, it looked like a Little Egret but apparently they can only be found in Southern England in Autumn. I am definately sure it was nothing like a large seagul. Is it possible that Egrets can fly this far north?

[Imaginos]

Most of the books are out of date on this species, the little egret now breeds in many places in the south of England and is rapidly expanding its range. I'd say yes, it is very possible that this is what you saw.

[Feathers]

The Wirral is very well off for birding resources, in particular this site

http://www.deeestuary.co.uk/

which updates sightings every day of the year - and it seems that there have been plenty of Little Egrets both at Parkgate and Inner Marsh Farm in the last few days.

They've also been spotted here in Sheffield/Doncaster... but not that many. Don't blame them really...

Cheers
Chris

[Tormentil]

There was one at Messingham the other week.

[natterjack]

We have a fair number around here (Suffolk) year round now, whilst they were quite unusual visitors 5 years ago.

A couple of youngsters attempted a nest on one of our sites last year, but nothing came of it. There don't seem to be quite so many about this year however, and I've seen no nesting attempts.

[Jon]

I understand 135 have recently roosted at RSPB Inner Marsh Farm Wirral. They are also frequently found along the Dee from Burton up to West Kirby. Jon

[John]

They have been seen as far north as Scotland and can now be seen almost anywhere. Their range has increased enormously in recent years.

John

[ogwen]

Thanks for the help.

I didnt realise how far north they have come. Looking at all the bird books i shows how out of date they are. It also says in the books that they dont call in Britain. Is this true? When I've seen them they've all been silent.

[Alan]

They frequently turn up along the Humber Estuary all through the year.

[chunkychambers]

Hi Ogwen.
I live in N.Devon and we regularly have counts of 100+ of egrets on "Isley Marsh" there have also been reports of breeding pairs.
Also on the Marsh we get Spoonbills (4or5) from Nov to April approx.