Rare Birds in Cambridgeshire
74 species matching this filter.
Cambridgeshire's diverse landscape of fenland, wetland reserves, and arable farmland provides occasional refuge for 74 rare bird species that turn up infrequently across the county. Notable rarities include the striking Bohemian Waxwing during winter irruptions, the elusive Eurasian Bittern lurking in reedbeds, and passage migrants such as Arctic Tern and Garganey passing through the county's renowned wetland sites. With patience and careful timing, birdwatchers can encounter these scarce visitors at key locations including the Ouse Washes, Wicken Fen, and the Nene Washes.
Showing 70–74 of 74 species
Wheatear
Oenanthe oenantheLC
A rare passage migrant passing through in spring and autumn, pausing on ploughed fields and short grassland.
Apr–Sep
Whimbrel
Numenius phaeopusLC
A rare spring passage migrant in April and May, pausing briefly on fenland washlands and wet grasslands on its way north.
Apr–May
Whinchat
Saxicola rubetraLC
A rare passage migrant seen briefly in spring and late summer, favouring rough grassland and fenland margins.
May–Sep
Wood Sandpiper
Tringa glareolaLC
A rare passage wader seen at freshwater scrapes and flooded fields, mainly in late summer and early autumn.
May–Sep
Yellow-legged Gull
Larus michahellisLC
Uncommon but present year-round, often mixed in with other large gulls at landfill sites, reservoirs, and gravel pits.
Mar–Apr