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Tropical Heron Spotted in UK for First Time as More Exotic Birds Arrive to Thrill Birdwatchers
Appearance of a western reef heron in north Wales is unlikely to be the last, as heating temperatures mean species can survive Britain’s winter, say experts
TL;DR
- A western reef heron, native to West Africa and India, was sighted in North Wales, marking the first UK record.
- Birdwatchers have also recently observed a squacco heron in Lincolnshire and a black-winged kite in Norfolk.
- Experts state that milder winters due to climate change are enabling these tropical species to survive in the UK.
- Historically, harsh winters prevented such species from surviving in Britain, but this is no longer the case.
- Other tropical birds like the brown booby and white-rumped swift have also been sighted in the UK in recent years.