European Spoonbill

Platalea leucorodia

Scarce Spring & Autumn migrant plus Winter Visitor with 40-50 per year in Britain.

Rare breeder with 10 pairs recently established.

Breeds in Spain, Portugal, France, South Eastern Europe, North Africa & Holland.

Winters south to the Mediterranean.

Adults in Breeding Plumage have a crest, yellow on tip of the bill & on the chest.

In Winter, they still have the yellow tip to the bill but no crest.

Juveniles have a pink bill with back in the wing tips.

 Unlike herons, Spoonbills fly with their necks outstretched.