A “Twitch” to Cornwall

My first BIG twitch of the year took place on Saturday 20th October, the target, a Grey Catbird, all the way from the US of A. This was the second record for Britain of this species, so a real MEGA and had been performing in small scrubby fields at Lands End for the past five days. I’d never seen Grey Catbird before, so a new bird for me, as well as being my 511th bird for Britain. Was it worth the effort, it sure was. A superb bird that was enjoyed by many birders from all over the country, in warm Cornish sunshine and in a stunning location. In my view you can’t beat seeing a North American bird in Britain, the ultimate rare. 

Grey Catbird – 1st winter, Treeve Moor, Land’s End, Cornwall. This was my very first view of this bird as it skulked around in a small sallow – Tony Davison©

Grey Catbird – Renowned to be skulking in their habits and located by their “Mewing Call’ reminiscent of a cat, which is where they get their name. This was the view I expected – Tony Davison©

Grey Catbird – Above 2 – But with patience I had some extremely rewarding views, as the bird was hunting for food along the hedgerow – Tony Davison©