BinocularBase

The Marsh Tit is a small bird you might spot in woodlands across the UK. Despite its name, you won't find it in marshes - it actually prefers old forests with lots of oak and beech trees. These little birds are about the size of a Blue Tit and look quite similar to their cousins, the Willow Tit. Marsh Tits have a shiny black cap, white cheeks, and greyish-brown feathers on their back and wings. They're quite clever, hiding seeds and nuts to eat later when food's harder to find. You might hear them making a pitchy "pitchou" call. These birds don't migrate, so they stay in the UK all year round. They make their nests in holes in trees, often using ones that other birds have left behind. Sadly, there aren't as many Marsh Tits as there used to be, mainly because their forest homes are disappearing. But if you're lucky, you might spot one at a bird feeder in your garden, especially if you put out sunflower seeds or peanuts. Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/marsh-tit/

Marsh Harriers, known scientifically as Circus aeruginosus, are impressive birds of prey that call wetlands home. You'll find them across Europe and Asia, often swooping low over marshes and reedbeds. These big birds are hard to miss with their long wings and tails. One interesting thing about Marsh Harriers is that males and females look quite different. The blokes are mostly brown with grey wings, while the ladies are dark brown all over. They're not fussy eaters, happily hunting water birds, small mammals, and even fish. When it's time to have chicks, they build nests right on the ground, tucked away in tall plants near water. It's a bit risky, but it works for them! These birds had a rough time in the past because of hunting and losing their wetland homes. But good news - their numbers are on the up thanks to conservation work. Keep your eyes peeled for them gliding over places like the Norfolk Broads! Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/marsh-harrier/

The Mandarin Duck, or Aix galericulata, is a really pretty bird from East Asia. The males are super colourful, with bright orange "sails" on their backs and a red beak. Females are more plain, mostly brown with white spots. These ducks live in forests near water, like ponds and streams. They're ace at flying through trees and often nest in holes high up in trunks. Mandarin Ducks eat all sorts of things - plants, seeds, insects, and small fish. They're not big, only about 45cm long. In the wild, they're found in China, Japan, and Russia, but some have escaped from parks in the UK and now live here too. People in Asia see these ducks as a symbol of love and faithfulness because they usually stick with the same partner. Sadly, there aren't as many of them as there used to be, mainly because we're cutting down their forest homes. But luckily, they're not in danger of dying out just yet. Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/mandarin-duck/

Mallards are the most common ducks you'll see in the UK. They're easy to spot - the males have shiny green heads and grey bodies, while the females are mottled brown. You'll find them in all sorts of watery places, from ponds and rivers to city parks. These ducks aren't fussy eaters. They'll munch on plants, insects, and even small fish. They're famous for their loud "quack" sound, which you can hear from quite far away. Mallards are clever birds. They can fly at speeds up to 55 miles per hour and can take off almost straight up from the water. In the autumn, many UK Mallards fly south for warmer weather, but some stick around all year. These ducks are important to our ecosystem. They help spread plant seeds and are food for other animals. Sadly, their numbers have gone down a bit in recent years, but they're still a common sight in British waterways. Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/mallard/

Magpies are clever birds you'll often see in the UK. They're part of the crow family and have a distinct black and white look. These birds are pretty big, about the size of a pigeon, with long tails that shimmer green and purple in the sun. Magpies are known for being smart and curious. They'll eat just about anything, from insects and small animals to berries and even rubbish. You might spot them hopping about in parks or gardens, looking for food. These birds have got a bit of a bad reputation. Some people think they bring bad luck, and others reckon they steal shiny things. But that's just old stories - magpies are actually quite helpful, eating pests in gardens. Magpies mate for life and build big, messy nests in trees. They're social birds and often gather in groups called 'parliaments'. Despite what some think, magpies are important for our ecosystems and add character to our neighbourhoods. Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/magpie/

Ever seen a Long-Tailed Tit? These cute little birds are a common sight in British gardens and woods. They're dead easy to spot with their roundish bodies and super long tails - almost as long as the rest of them! Their black and white feathers are topped off with a lovely pink colour on their shoulders. These sociable birds love to hang out in family groups, chirping away with their high-pitched calls. When it gets cold, they buddy up with other small birds to stay warm and find grub. Pretty smart, right? Long-Tailed Tits are brilliant nest builders. They make these amazing ball-shaped nests using moss, lichen, and spider webs, then line them with soft feathers. They can lay up to 12 eggs, but sadly, lots of the chicks don't survive. These tiny birds munch on small insects and spiders, which they find while hopping about in trees and bushes. They're quite common in the UK, but tough winters can be hard on them. Still, they're hardy little things and great fun to watch! Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/long-tailed-tit/

The Long-Tailed Duck, with the scientific name Clangula hyemalis, is a bird native to the Arctic and sub-Arctic zones. Males are known for their long, elegant tail feathers during the breeding season. These ducks are adept at diving, often plunging into the water to find food like shellfish and small fish. In the winter months, they migrate to less icy areas. They are social birds and frequently gather in groups. Their vocalisations include a range of clicks and whistles, used mainly in courtship. Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/long-tailed-duck/

The Long-Eared Owl, or Asio otus, is a brilliant bird you might spot in the UK. These owls are proper masters of disguise, with feathers that look just like tree bark. They've got these tall ear tufts that make them look a bit grumpy, but they're not ears at all - just feathers! These owls are night owls through and through. They sleep all day in trees and come out at night to hunt. They've got ace hearing and can spot a mouse from miles away. Their favourite snacks are small rodents like voles and mice. Long-Eared Owls are medium-sized, about as big as a wood pigeon. They live in woodlands and forests, but you might see them in parks or gardens too. In winter, loads of them get together to roost, which is pretty cool to see. These owls don't build their own nests. Instead, they nick old nests from other birds like crows or magpies. Cheeky, right? But it works for them! Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/long-eared-owl/

The Little Tern, scientifically known as Sternula albifrons, is a small seabird often found along coastlines. With a wingspan of around 50 cm, it’s easy to spot due to its white forehead, black cap, and slender build. These birds are excellent fishers, diving into the water to catch small fish and other marine life. They breed in colonies on sandy or shingle beaches, where they lay their eggs in shallow scrapes on the ground. Sadly, Little Terns are vulnerable due to habitat loss and disturbance from human activities. Conservation efforts are crucial to protect these charming birds. Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/little-tern/

The Little Ringed Plover is a small wading bird that likes to live near water. You can find them around lakes, rivers, and even gravel pits. These birds are quite small, about the size of a sparrow, with brown and white feathers. They've got a black band across their head and a yellow ring around their eyes. These clever birds are good at hiding their nests. They make them on the ground, often in places that look just like their eggs. This helps keep their babies safe from predators. Little Ringed Plovers eat small insects and worms they find near the water. In the UK, these birds are summer visitors. They fly here from Africa in spring to breed, then head back in autumn. Birdwatchers love spotting them because they're not super common. If you want to see one, look for a small bird running quickly along the water's edge, stopping now and then to peck at the ground. Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/little-ringed-plover/

Little Owls, also known as Athene noctua, are quite small owls. They're often found in Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia. These birds like to live in open areas, like farmland and grasslands. They're not afraid of humans and can often be seen in towns and villages. Little Owls are nocturnal, meaning they're most active at night. They hunt for small creatures like insects, rodents, and birds. They have a distinctive "hoo-hoo" call, which is often heard at night. Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/little-owl/

The Little Grebe, known to scientists as Tachybaptus ruficollis, is a small water bird you might spot on ponds and lakes across the UK. These cute little fellas are about the size of a blackbird, making them one of the smallest water birds around. They're pretty good swimmers and can dive underwater for up to half a minute to catch small fish and insects. In summer, Little Grebes have a reddish-brown neck and cheeks, which is why some people call them "dabchicks". But in winter, they change to a duller grey-brown colour. They're a bit shy and like to hide in reeds near the water's edge. These birds make floating nests out of plants, which is quite clever. When danger's near, they'll cover their eggs with wet plants to hide them. Little Grebes don't fly much, but when they do, it's usually at night. They make a funny trilling sound, a bit like a horse whinnying, which you might hear if you're near their habitat. Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/little-grebe/

The Little Egret is a small white heron that's become more common in the UK recently. These birds are easy to spot with their bright white feathers, black legs, and yellow feet. They're about 60 cm tall and have a long, thin black beak perfect for catching fish. Little Egrets like to hang out in shallow water, where they hunt for small fish, frogs, and insects. You might see them wading in coastal areas, marshes, or even inland near rivers and lakes. These birds are quite social and often nest in groups. They build their nests in trees or reed beds, usually laying 3-5 eggs at a time. Little Egrets were rare visitors to the UK until the 1990s, but now they're breeding here regularly. During the breeding season, adults grow long, fancy feathers called aigrettes. These used to be popular in the fashion industry, which nearly led to the birds' extinction. Luckily, protection laws have helped their numbers recover. Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/little-egret/

Have you heard of Linnets? They're lovely little birds you might spot in the UK countryside. About the size of a sparrow, these birds have brown feathers, but the males stand out with their bright red chest and forehead. The females don't have this flashy colour, though. Linnets are mad for seeds. They love eating them from plants like dandelions and thistles. You'll often see them in fields, hedgerows, and gorse bushes. They're quite social and like to gather in flocks, especially in winter. These birds have a sweet, twittering song that's quite nice. They make their homes in thick bushes using bits of grass and moss. Both mum and dad Linnet help look after their 4-6 eggs and chicks. Sadly, there aren't as many Linnets as there used to be. Farmers using more chemicals on crops has made it harder for them to find food. But people are trying to help by planting more wild areas for them. Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/linnet/

Lesser Whitethroats are small birds you might see in Europe and Asia. They're often found in bushes and trees, especially near water. They're known for their distinctive song, which sounds a bit like a cricket. Their feathers are usually a mix of brown and grey, with a white throat. These birds eat insects, berries, and seeds. They're not the easiest birds to spot, but if you're lucky, you might hear their song and see one flitting about. Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/lesser-whitethroat/

The Lesser Spotted Woodpecker is a small bird species that lives in the UK. It has distinctive black and white plumage, with a small red patch on the back of its head. This woodpecker is quite a rare sight, as its population has declined over the years due to loss of woodland habitats. It feeds mainly on insects and larvae that it finds in the bark of trees. The Lesser Spotted Woodpecker uses its sharp beak to drill small holes in tree trunks and branches to access its food. It nests in holes it carves out in trees, where the female will lay 4-6 eggs. These birds are quite small, only about the size of a sparrow. Seeing one of these woodpeckers in the wild is a real treat for any birdwatcher, as they are quite elusive and difficult to spot. Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/lesser-spotted-woodpecker/

Lapwings, also called peewits, are birds you might spot in fields or wetlands across the UK. They're easy to recognise with their black and white feathers and fancy crest on their heads. These birds are about the size of a pigeon but have longer legs and wings. Lapwings are known for their noisy calls and dramatic flying displays, especially during breeding season. They lay their eggs on the ground in simple nests, usually in fields or grasslands. Sadly, their numbers have gone down a lot in recent years because of changes in farming. These clever birds have an interesting way of protecting their nests. If a predator comes near, the parent will pretend to have a broken wing to lure the threat away. Lapwings mainly eat insects and worms, which they find by tapping the ground with their feet. In winter, lots of lapwings from other countries join the UK birds, forming big flocks. They're an important part of our countryside and need our help to survive. Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/lapwing/

Knots are tough little wading birds that are famous for their long trips. Every year, they fly from the Arctic to warmer spots and then back again. They're about the size of a blackbird and have short legs. Their feathers are clever - they change colour with the seasons, going from grey in winter to reddish-brown in summer. You'll often spot Knots in big groups on mudflats and beaches. They use their beaks to poke around in the mud for tiny bits to eat. When it's time to have babies, they fly all the way up to the Arctic tundra. The male Knots do a special dance to try and get a girlfriend. These birds are known for their long flights. Some can fly over 9,000 km without stopping! Sadly, Knots are struggling because of climate change and people messing up where they live. Scientists are trying to help them, but it's not easy. Even so, these little birds keep going, showing how tough nature can be. Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/knot/

The Kingfisher, or Alcedo atthis, is a brilliant little bird you might spot near rivers and lakes. They're pretty small, about the size of a sparrow, but you can't miss their bright blue and orange feathers. These birds are ace at fishing - they dive into the water like a bolt from the blue to catch small fish and insects. Kingfishers have got a special trick: they can see underwater! Their eyes have lenses that help them spot fish even when the water's a bit murky. They usually sit on a branch over the water, watching for their next meal. These birds dig tunnels in river banks to make their nests. Both mum and dad look after the chicks, taking turns to bring food. Sadly, Kingfishers are having a tough time in some areas because of pollution and changes to their habitats. But if you're lucky, you might see one zooming past like a bright blue arrow - it's a real treat! Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/kingfisher/

Kestrels, known by their scientific name Falco tinnunculus, are brilliant little birds of prey. You'll often spot them hovering over fields, looking for their next meal. These clever birds have amazing eyesight - they can see ultraviolet light, which helps them track down small animals by following their wee trails. Kestrels aren't too fussy about where they live. You might see them in cities, countryside, or even on the coast. They're quite small for birds of prey, about the size of a wood pigeon. The males are pretty easy to spot with their blue-grey heads and reddish-brown backs. Females are a bit bigger and have brown feathers all over. These birds are proper smart when it comes to hunting. They've got a special way of flying called 'wind-hovering', where they stay still in the air by facing into the wind. This lets them scan the ground for tasty snacks like voles, mice, and insects. Kestrels are found all over the UK, but sadly their numbers have been going down lately. We need to look after these brilliant birds to make sure they stick around. Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/kestrel/

The Jay is a colourful bird you might spot in UK woods. It's part of the crow family, but looks quite different with its pinkish-brown feathers and bright blue wing patch. Jays are about the size of a pigeon and make a loud, harsh call that sounds a bit like a screech. These clever birds are known for hiding acorns and nuts to eat later. They can remember thousands of hiding spots! This helps trees grow, as some acorns get left behind and sprout into new oak trees. Jays eat all sorts of things, like insects, small animals, and even eggs from other birds' nests. They're quite shy and will fly away if they spot you. But if you're quiet and patient, you might see one in a woodland or park. In the UK, Jays are here all year round. They don't migrate like some other birds. Instead, they tough out the winter by relying on their stored food and finding whatever else they can. Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/jay/

Jackdaws are clever little birds that belong to the crow family. You'll often spot them in towns and villages across the UK. They're smaller than other crows, with a grey neck and piercing blue-grey eyes. These social birds like to hang out in groups, nesting in chimneys, old buildings, and even cliffs. Jackdaws are proper smart cookies. They can use tools and solve problems, just like their bigger crow cousins. They're not fussy eaters and will munch on almost anything, from insects and seeds to scraps left by humans. These birds mate for life, which is pretty romantic. They build their nests together and both parents look after the chicks. Jackdaws are known for their chatty nature, making various calls and even mimicking human speech sometimes. In folklore, jackdaws have been seen as lucky birds. They've adapted well to living near humans and can often be seen strutting about in parks or gardens, looking for their next meal. Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/jackdaw/

House Sparrows are small birds you'll spot all over the UK. They're not fussy eaters and will munch on seeds, scraps, and insects. These little chaps are social butterflies, often seen in groups chirping away. The boys are easy to spot with their grey caps and black bibs, while the girls are more plain-looking. These sparrows love to nest in buildings, making them proper city slickers. They've been around humans for ages, but sadly, their numbers have been going down in recent years. No one's quite sure why, but it might be because of changes in farming and fewer places to build nests in towns. House Sparrows don't travel far from where they're born. They're tough little birds that can live for about 3 years in the wild. Even though they're common, it's important to look after them so they stick around for years to come. Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/house-sparrow/

House Martins are cool little birds you might spot zipping around buildings in the UK. They're part of the swallow family and love to build their nests on houses and other structures. These birds are pretty small, about the size of a sparrow, with a white belly and a blue-black back. In spring, House Martins fly all the way from Africa to spend summer here. They're ace flyers and catch insects in the air for food. You'll often see them swooping and diving around, especially near water where there are lots of bugs. Their nests are really clever - they make them out of mud pellets stuck under the eaves of buildings. Both mum and dad birds work together to build the nest and look after their chicks. Sadly, House Martin numbers have been going down in recent years. This might be because there are fewer insects around or because modern buildings don't have as many good spots for nests. But lots of people are trying to help by putting up special nest boxes for them. Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/house-martin/

The Hoopoe, or Upupa epops, is a really cool bird you might spot in the UK. It's got this funky crest on its head that looks like a mohawk! These birds are about the size of a blackbird, with orange-pink feathers and black and white stripes on their wings. Hoopoes love to eat insects, especially beetles and worms. They use their long, thin beaks to poke around in the soil for food. You're most likely to see them in open areas with short grass, like parks or golf courses. These birds are pretty noisy, making a "hoop-hoop-hoop" sound that gives them their name. They're not common in Britain, but some pop over from Europe in the spring and summer. Hoopoes have an odd way of protecting their nests - they spray smelly poo around to keep predators away! It's gross but clever. Despite this weird habit, many cultures think Hoopoes are special birds. Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/hoopoe/