Photo: Goldfinch
food provided in gardens, according to the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO).
5 unusual birds you may spot in your garden in summer and beyond By Hannah Stephenson, PA
To attract goldfinches to your plot, consider planting trees and shrubs that produce smaller berries, such as dog rose and coneflower. These berries are easier for the smaller species like finches and tits to consume.
2. Hoopoe
Have you ever noticed an exotic-looking bird in your garden and wondered what it was?
Partial to insects and spiders, this exotic-looking bird has, most notably, a long pinkish-brown crest which it raises when excited, as well as striking black and white wings and a long black downcurved bill. It doesn’t breed in the UK, yet some have been seen mainly on the south coast of England as they migrate north to Europe from Africa, and have even been spotted as far north as Shetland, according to the RSPB.
For those looking to attract unusual birds to their gardens, there’s a variety of plants readily accessible in the UK, which even the rarest of Britain’s birdlife can’t resist. Of course, the proximity of your garden to woodlands, water sources and its size will all have an effect on the species you see frequent your grounds, but it is possible to tailor the birds that visit with the plants that thrive right here in the UK. Here are some you may spot in your garden and in parks, woodlands, conservation areas and while exploring the great outdoors.
3. Roseate tern
This elegant seabird is known for its pale pinkish hue and long tail streamers. It nests on coastal sites and can be spotted in a few locations around the UK during the summer months.These birds are attracted by sea holly – the spiky, blue or purple flowers can provide nectar for insects, which in turn attract the terns. Alternatively, sea lavender produces clusters of small, lavender-coloured flowers that can attract insects and provide a food source for the birds.
1. Goldfinch
Populations of goldfinches have been rising steadily in the UK in recent decades, as birds have taken advantage of bird
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