Whooper Swans in Derbyshire

Whooper Swans are on the move, heading back north to their breeding grounds; this flock of 27 adult birds decided to break their journey with a stop at Linacre Reservoirs, Derbys. Photos by Glyn Sellors.

Black Duck and Rose-coloured Starling, Pembrokeshire

Female Black Duck near Dale at Marloes Mere - note the diagnostic purple speculum bordered by narrow black edges and lacking white. Never the most exciting of birds, but still real rarity. This female is possibly paired with a male Mallard, and as hybridisation is frequently recorded between the two species, there could be some real tough ID challenges in Pembrokeshire in the future should these two decide to breed!

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Two images of the 1st-winter Rose-coloured Starling from Haverfordwest feeding in the back gardens of Portfield.



All videograbs by Steve Evans. For more, visit Steve's website at:

www.isabelline.co.uk/

King Eider, Troon, 13th March 2008

This immaculate drake has been returning to the Ayrshire/Dumfries and Galloway coast since 2003, yet it was strangely absent in 2007. Photographed by Jim Woods just outside Troon Harbour.

Iceland Gull, Ayr

The regular returning bird often to be found in the town centre on the River Ayr between the railway and foot bridges. Photos by Jim Woods.

Alpine Accentors, Les Baux, France, February 2008

Sadly not taken in Britain, though with the last record over here now four years ago, we're possibly due one this spring. Fingers crossed! Photos by Glyn Sellors

Great Grey Shrike, Budby Common

One of two wintering Great Grey Shrikes in Nottinghamshire (the other at Clumber Park favouring the area opposite the chapel on the South Lawns). Photos by Glyn Sellors.

Ring-billed Gull, Clyde

Still a real rarity in Scotland (Ring-billed Gull records should still be submitted to the Scottish rarities committee), this adult has been showing well and coming to bread in the car parks at Strathclyde Loch, allowing Jim Woods a great opportunity to photograph this striking American gull.

More of the Waxwing in Derbyshire

Three more excellent photos by Glyn Sellors of the Allestree Waxwing, still present yesterday and still showing well.