Question 1

What rare birds can I see in Leicestershire?

Accepted Answer

Leicestershire hosts around 70 rare bird species, ranging from resident birds of prey like Barn Owl and Little Owl to passage waders such as Greenshank and Green Sandpiper. Scarce wildfowl including Northern Pintail, Common Shelduck and Black-necked Grebe can also be found, particularly around the county's reservoirs.

Question 2

Where are the best places to spot rare birds in Leicestershire?

Accepted Answer

The county's reservoirs, including Rutland Water and Eyebrook Reservoir, are excellent for rare wildfowl and waders such as Black-necked Grebe and Green Sandpiper. Farmland edges and quiet woodland areas across the county can yield sightings of Barn Owl, Eurasian Woodcock and Grasshopper Warbler.

Question 3

What is the best time of year to find rare birds in Leicestershire?

Accepted Answer

Spring and autumn migration periods are particularly rewarding, bringing passage waders like Greenshank and Green Sandpiper to the county's wetlands. Winter months can produce sightings of rare wildfowl such as Northern Pintail, while summer offers the chance to hear the distinctive reeling song of the Grasshopper Warbler.

Question 4

Why are some common species elsewhere considered rare in Leicestershire?

Accepted Answer

Leicestershire's inland location and predominantly agricultural landscape mean that species more typically associated with coastal or wetland habitats, such as Common Shelduck and Black-necked Grebe, occur only in small numbers. Similarly, species like Egyptian Goose are still expanding their range and remain uncommon visitors to the county.

Rare Birds in Leicestershire

Yellow-legged Gull

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