Here on the Island, we have a variety of species of wildlife and there is no shortage of rare bird sightings on the Isle of Wight for keen and novice birdwatchers.
Thanks to coastal areas, wetlands, woodlands, and farmland our small Island home attracts a wide range of bird species throughout the year.
The hot topic in the Isle of Wight birding world at the moment is a European Roller. A bright turquoise bird around the size of a Jay if you see it you will know (there’s no mistaking this exotic looking bird). It has been spotted here for only the second time. We recommend following local birding sites for images and more information on local sightings.
Most notably (in recent years) is the White-tailed Eagle. The Isle of Wight has been part of a reintroduction project for this magnificent bird of prey. They have an impressive wingspan of 1.78 to 2.45 m (that’s 5 ft 10 in to 8 ft in old money). You would think they would be easy to spot, but many islanders are yet to see one of these elusive birds and sightings of the population have been as far north as Scotland.
Another amazing bird of prey, the Osprey is an occasional visitor to the Island, particularly during their migration periods. As a ‘sea fisher’ they can be seen near bodies of water such as Newtown Creek.
A tricky to find little bird that is difficult to find in its usual habitat. The Dartford Warbler has a distinctive appearance with its reddish-brown plumage and a thin, downward-curving beak and has been spotted on the Isle of Wight in the past. If they do make their way here they will likely be in heathland style habitats, think Ventnor Downs.
A particularly rare bird visitor and even rarer occurrence, a pair of colourful and rare Bee-eaters had set up home on National Trust land on the Isle of Wight. Amazingly they became only of only three recorded pairs to breed successfully in the UK in the last century.
Bee-eaters usually nest in southern Europe. Prior to this the last time they were recorded breeding in the UK was in 2002 and 1955 before that.
Bird sightings are dependent on many things from weather to time of year so don’t get disheartened if you don’t see what you want this time around. Keep at it, join or follow local groups and good luck… oh and don’t forget to tag us in your pics!
