Collared Pratincole

Last week, I made my annual early summer evening visit to Frampton Marsh RSPB with my Dad. It’s become a bit of a tradition for us — we always pick an evening when the reserve is quiet and enjoy a peaceful wander, just the two of us and the birds.

This year’s visit brought a nice surprise: a Collared Pratincole that had been found the weekend before was still present and showing well (if a little distant!). These elegant waders are always a treat to see in the UK — and this sighting made it my second Pratincole species at Frampton Marsh. The first was an Oriental Pratincole I was lucky enough to catch up with there about 15 years ago.

It’s special moments like this that keep me heading back, year after year. You never know what Frampton will deliver next — that’s half the fun!