Bee-eaters return to Norfolk
Up to eight European Bee-eaters have returned to last year's Norfolk breeding site, including at least one nesting pair.
The arrival of the birds at Trimingham marks the first time the species has returned to the same breeding site in the UK in consecutive years. They are being closely monitored by the RSPB, local birders and North East Norfolk Bird Club to ensure their safety and allow them to breed undisturbed.
One of the adult European Bee-eaters at the nest site in 2022 (Ian Bollen).
At least one nesting pair has already been confirmed and it's anticipated that additional birds may join them. Last year, eight bee-eaters were present and three chicks successfully hatched.
A managed public viewing area has been set up and will open on Friday 16 June. The site is open from 7 am-7 pm daily and there is a charge of £5 per person (cash only) to cover site monitoring. More details can be found here.
RSPB volunteer, Josh Fusiara, who helped manage the site when the birds bred there in 2022, said: "To have been able to help manage and protect breeding bee-eaters in the UK was amazing and something I will never forget. I love that they're accessible for the public to see, and there's a real sense of community at the viewing site.
"To have seen the bee-eater chicks fledge last summer was a truly special experience and a tribute to the brilliant work of the whole team."
- Keep up to date with reports of European Bee-eaters, rare and scarce sightings, and birds in your local area at www.birdguides.com/sightings or via the BirdGuides app. New users are entitled to a one-month free trial.
