Birds in Bristol
Explore 124 species found in this region.
Bristol's diverse landscapes, from the tidal mudflats of the Severn Estuary to the wooded gorges and urban parks, support an impressive array of birdlife. With 123 species recorded across the county, birders can enjoy sightings ranging from familiar garden visitors like Great Tits and Magpies to wetland specialists such as Common Shelduck and Common Reed-warbler. The region's mix of estuarine, woodland, and grassland habitats makes it a rewarding destination for birdwatching throughout the year.
Visiting in April? Look out for Bar-tailed Godwit and Barn Swallow arriving this month, and Eurasian Wigeon and Firecrest depart for the season.
Showing 116–124 of 124 species
Western Marsh-harrier
Circus aeruginosusLC
A rare passage visitor in April, occasionally drifting over wetlands on the Somerset Levels fringe near Bristol.
Apr
Wheatear
Oenanthe oenantheLC
A rare passage migrant in April and September, pausing on open ground and playing fields. Breeds on uplands further west and north.
Apr–Sep
Whimbrel
Numenius phaeopusLC
A rare visitor in spring and late summer, passing through on migration. Listen for its distinctive rippling whistle.
Apr–Aug
Whitethroat
Curruca communisLC
An uncommon summer visitor favouring scrubby hedgerows and allotment edges. Males deliver a scratchy song from exposed perches.
Apr–Sep
Willow Warbler
Phylloscopus trochilusLC
An uncommon summer breeder from March to September, favouring scrubby woodland edges and parks. Its gentle descending song is a hallmark of spring.
Mar–Sep
Wood Warbler
Phylloscopus sibilatrixLC
A rare passage visitor, occasionally noted in June. More typical of western oak woodlands; Bristol lies at the edge of its breeding range.
Jun
Woodpigeon
Columba palumbusLC
Abundant year-round in Bristol's parks, gardens, and woodlands. Often heard cooing from rooftops and readily visits bird tables.
Year-round
Yellow Wagtail
Motacilla flavaLC
A rare spring passage migrant, briefly passing through damp meadows and field edges in April. A declining UK breeder.
Apr
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Yellow-legged Gull
Larus michahellisLC
A rare passage visitor in December, occasionally seen among gull flocks at landfill sites or along the Severn Estuary.
Dec