Rare Birds in Hertfordshire
54 species matching this filter.
Hertfordshire may be a largely inland county, but its mix of reservoirs, chalk streams, ancient woodlands, and farmland attracts an impressive array of rare bird species. With 54 species classified as rare, patient observers may encounter elusive visitors such as Eurasian Bittern, Bohemian Waxwing, Aquatic Warbler, and Garganey. These sightings often coincide with seasonal migrations or harsh weather events that push uncommon species into the county's varied habitats.
Showing 47–54 of 54 species
Tawny Owl
Strix alucoLC
A scarce but widespread resident of mature woodland and wooded parks. Its hooting call carries through the night across the county's ancient woodlands.
Year-round
Temminck's Stint
Calidris temminckiiLC
A rare autumn passage wader, occasionally recorded at muddy scrapes in August. A prized find at any Hertfordshire wetland.
Aug
Western Marsh-harrier
Circus aeruginosusLC
A rare passage visitor in spring and autumn, occasionally seen quartering reedbeds and marshes. The Lee Valley wetlands offer the best chance of a sighting.
Apr–Aug
Wheatear
Oenanthe oenantheLC
A rare visitor to open farmland and short grassland, mainly on spring and autumn passage. Ploughed fields and golf courses are favoured stopover sites.
Mar–Sep
Whinchat
Saxicola rubetraLC
A rare passage migrant in late summer, pausing briefly on rough grassland and scrubby fields during southward migration.
Aug–Sep
Whooper Swan
Cygnus cygnusLC
A rare winter visitor occasionally recorded on reservoirs and flooded fields in November and December. Always a notable county sighting.
Nov–Dec
Wood Sandpiper
Tringa glareolaLC
A rare spring passage migrant, occasionally dropping in at muddy reservoir margins in May. A sought-after find for county birders.
May
Yellow-legged Gull
Larus michahellisLC
A rare passage visitor, occasionally picked out among large gull flocks at reservoirs and tips in early spring and winter.
Jul–Apr