Finally managed to pick my 'bogey' today with the Hoopoe that has been present on horse paddocks at the village of Crostwick in Norfolk for the past week. I have 'chased' this bird for years, never 'catching' it, even abroad where they are apparently extremely easy to see.
After a bit of a run around in the rain, sleet and strong winds I finally managed to get to the correct site and whilst balancing on a plastic bucket in order to look over a 7ft high wooden fence, I got my first ever view of this rather splendid bird. When the sun did deem to shine the bird was never closer than about 200 metres away and when it did decide to come any closer the sun had gone in and more rain clouds appeared. It did feel good to pick that bogey though!
Fantastic! Just goes to show- good things come to those who wait. CT.
ReplyDeleteThanks CT! It was well worth the wait.
DeleteJ
I was at Fowlmere a few years ago when a Hoopoe put in an unexpected appearance. It was apparently first spotted by a small boy on his first ever birdwatching expedition - "What's that, Daddy?".
ReplyDeleteLucky lad! And lucky you to see one so unexpectedly.
DeleteJ
So glad you have seen this beautiful bird now.
ReplyDeleteThanks Margaret!
DeleteJ
Well done for you persistence! There are supposed to be Hoopes at Fairlop Waters, Redbridge. I have never seen one there but they should be quite easy to spot.
ReplyDeleteThanks Bazza!
DeleteThey are unusual in the UK, although there are a few each year. If they are regular there, just look out for a peachy coloured bird that is roughly the same size as a Collared Dove.
J