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The Chiffchaff is a modest little warbler that's one of the first migrants we see back in spring. These brown birds, smaller than a sparrow, are pretty drab apart from their black legs and eye-stripes. But you'll easily hear the males singing their simple chiff-chaff song to let other Chiffchaffs know they're around. They fly here from southern Europe and north Africa in March to nest in shrubbery and hedgerows across the UK. Chiffchaffs eat little insects they find amongst the leaves. Though well camouflaged, their loud repetitive voices make them noticeable in parks and gardens nationwide. Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/chiffchaff/

The Chaffinch, scientifically known as Fringilla coelebs, is a delightful little bird found across Europe and parts of Asia. These perky fellows are easily recognisable with their reddish-brown backs, pinkish faces, and distinctive white wing bars. During breeding season, the males sport a striking blue-grey cap, making them quite the dapper chaps. Chaffinches are a common sight in gardens and parks, where they happily hop about foraging for seeds and insects. They're not shy birds either, often seen flitting about in open spaces. These feathered friends are known for their cheerful song, which adds a pleasant touch to any neighbourhood. While they may be small, Chaffinches play a vital role in controlling insect populations and spreading plant seeds. Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/chaffinch/

The Cattle Egret, scientifically known as Bubulcus ibis, is a fascinating bird species. These stocky herons are easily recognizable by their short, thick necks and their mostly white plumage, with a few yellow or reddish-brown feathers on their heads, breasts, and backs during the breeding season. Originally from parts of Southern Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas, they've since spread to other regions through natural dispersal. Cattle Egrets are highly social birds, often found in large colonies near bodies of water or foraging in fields and pastures, closely following cattle, horses, or other livestock to feed on insects and small vertebrates stirred up by the grazing animals. Their close association with livestock has earned them the colloquial name "cow birds" in some regions. Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/cattle-egret/

The Cetti's Warbler is a small brown bird found across Europe and Asia. These warblers really love dense vegetation like reedbeds and brambles where they can hide and nest. They've got a loud and explosive song that sounds like "cheee-cheee-cheee-chup-chup-chup!" You're most likely to hear them rather than see them as they keep undercover. Cetti's Warblers are quite unique as they're one of the few UK birds that holds a territory and sings throughout winter. They're pretty feisty too, violently defending their patch against rivals. These secretive little birds are doing well and their numbers have increased recently. Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/cettis-warbler/

The Capercaillie is a large game bird found across sections of Europe and northwestern Asia. Part of the grouse family, these stocky chaps are the biggest of the lot - the males can weigh up to 4kg! They're easily recognisable with their brownish feathers tinged with green and purple hues. The male birds are considerably bigger than the females, featuring a distinctively curved tail and bright red wattle above their beak. Capercaillies dwell in mature pine forests where they mainly feed on pine needles, buds and berries. Despite being quite timid birds that avoid humans, their numbers have sadly plummeted due to loss of habitat from deforestation and other issues. Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/capercaillie/

The Canada Goose, with the scientific name Branta canadensis, is a hefty wild goose species. It's easily identified by its black head and neck contrasted with brown body feathers and white cheek patches. Their breeding grounds stretch across Canada into the northern United States. Come autumn, these geese migrate in V-formations to wintering grounds in the southern US and Mexico. They're known for their unmistakably loud honking calls. Canada Geese are lifelong mated pairs that stick together in large flocks. They construct nests on the ground near water sources, which they vigilantly defend. Although protected, they've adapted so well to urban areas that they're considered a nuisance in some places. Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/canada-goose/

The buzzard is a bird of prey found all across the UK. These medium-sized hawks have broad wings and a short hooked beak perfect for tearing meat. Buzzards mainly hunt small mammals like rabbits, voles, and mice by soaring over fields and swooping down. You can spot them gliding on thermals, making circular movements. Their mottled brown feathers provide great camouflage. Buzzards nest in trees or on cliff ledges and usually lay around 3 eggs each spring. Though once persecuted, their numbers have recovered well thanks to protection. You're likely to see these magnificent raptors perched on fence posts or pylons around the countryside. Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/buzzard/

Originally from Europe, the stout Bullfinch has a pinkish-red breast and grey wings. The males sport a smart black cap while the females have a dull grey cap. Their diet consists mainly of buds, berries and seeds which they pick from trees and bushes. Bullfinches make their nests from twigs, moss and lichens, hidden away in thick bushes or hedges. The female lays around 4-6 pale blue eggs which incubate for a couple of weeks before hatching. Both mum and dad take turns feeding the chicks a mix of insects and regurgitated plants. These birds are non-migratory, sticking to the same local territory all year. Their pretty tinkling call is a recognisable sound in parks and gardens across Britain. Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/bullfinch/

Branta bernicla, more commonly called the Brent Goose, is a small goose species native to the northern latitudes of Europe, Asia and North America. Every summer they head to the Arctic tundra to breed before flying south to warmer coastal areas for winter. Brent Geese live in huge sociable flocks, sometimes over a thousand strong. Their diet consists mainly of grasses, herbs and grains like wheat and rice which they graze on. You can identify them by their black head and neck with brown feathers on their back and belly. Brent Geese form lifelong breeding pairs and both the male and female look after their goslings. Although still numerous, their populations could decline due to habitat destruction and global warming. Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/brent-goose/

The Brambling is a small finch with a fairly rounded body and thick bill. These birds breed across northern Europe and Asia, migrating southwards in winter to places like the UK. Bramblings often gather in big flocks with other finches to feast on beech nuts, seeds and berries. The male has a striking black head and back with reddish-orange breast in summer. In winter, the colours are more muted browns. Females lack the bright colours year-round. Bramblings nest in conifer trees, laying 4-7 eggs. Sadly, numbers have declined due to habitat loss on their breeding grounds. Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/brambling/

The Bluethroat (Luscinia svecica) is a stunner of a little bird that breeds across northern parts of Europe and Asia. As you might guess from its name, the male has a brilliant blue patch on its throat to pull in the ladies during mating season. Closely related to robins and nightingales, these dainty birds migrate amazing distances twice a year between northerly breeding areas and wintering grounds in north Africa and the Middle East. When setting up home for summer, they construct neatly woven cup nests on the ground, hidden away in vegetation. A diet of insects and berries fuels their long journeys. Despite being widespread still, some Bluethroat populations are unfortunately declining thanks to habitat loss and degradation. Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/bluethroat/

The Blackcap Warbler is a lovely little bird found across Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia. These fellas are quite small, only measuring around 5 and a half inches from beak to tail. Despite their modest size, they're real characters with their striking caps of black feathers atop their heads. The males have this jet-black crown, while the females sport a reddish-brown cap. During the breeding season, you might spot them flitting about in woodlands and gardens, munching on insects and berries. Come winter, many Blackcaps head south to warmer climes, though some stick around in mild parts of Britain. They're cracking little songbirds too, with a rich, melodious warble that's a treat for the ears. Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/blackcap-warbler/

The blackbird is a common sight across Britain. These birds have a lovely singing voice that you'll hear in gardens and parks. The males are entirely black with bright yellow beaks and rings around their eyes. The females are brown rather than black. Blackbirds nest in bushes and trees, making cup-shaped nests from grass and mud. They mainly eat insects, worms, and berries. You'll often see them hopping about on lawns hunting for food. In winter, blackbirds will visit bird tables and feeders looking for seeds and fats to eat. Though they look quite plain, their beautiful songs make them a favourite for many people. Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/buy/zeiss-victory-sf-10x42-binoculars/

The Black-Throated Diver is a striking water bird found in the northern parts of Europe, Asia and North America. These elegant divers have a thick, straight bill and a long neck. In the summer, they have a black head and throat with white stripes on the neck. Their backs are chequered black and white. In winter, their plumage is mostly grey above and white below. These powerful birds dive impressively to catch fish, using their feet for propulsion underwater. They nest beside freshwater lakes and pools, laying two olive-brown eggs. The eerie wailing calls of these divers carry for miles across the remote northern wilderness. Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/black-throated-diver/

The Black-Headed Gull is a medium-sized seabird found across Europe, Asia and North Africa. In summer, their heads are a rich chocolate brown rather than black. These gregarious gulls breed in large, noisy colonies near water like lakes and marshes. They mainly eat insects, worms, and scraps but will take almost anything edible. In winter, their heads are white like their bodies. Though numerous, their numbers have declined due to habitat loss, pollution and human disturbance near nesting areas. These tough, adaptable gulls have learnt to thrive in towns and cities, scavenging food from bins and parks. Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/black-headed-gull/

The Black-Tailed Godwit is a wading bird species found in wetland areas across Europe, Asia, and parts of Africa. These elegant birds have long legs, a straight beak, and a beautiful reddish-brown plumage during the breeding season that turns a drab grey in the winter months. Their name comes from the distinctive black tail feathers that make them stand out. Black-Tailed Godwits feed on insects, worms, and small crustaceans that they find in muddy areas near water sources. They build their nests on the ground, and both the male and female take turns incubating the eggs. Sadly, their numbers have declined due to habitat loss and hunting, making conservation efforts crucial for their survival. Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/black-tailed-godwit/

A widespread water bird across the UK, Europe, Asia and North Africa is the delightful Black-Necked Grebe. Their lobed feet allow them to be expert swimmers and divers, chasing fish underwater with ease. During breeding season, the birds grow striking black head plumage and rich chestnut neck feathers. They construct floating nests from wet plants near water where the female lays around 4 pale green eggs. Both parents share incubating duties. Soon after hatching, the chicks can swim though ride on their parents' backs at first. While they migrate to coasts for winter, they return inland to breed each spring. Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/black-necked-grebe/

The Black Tern is a beautiful bird species found in many parts of the world. These birds are quite small, only about 25 centimetres long, with a black head and belly during the breeding season. Their wings are grey and they have a forked tail. Black Terns breed in marshes and on lakes, making their nests on floating vegetation or small islands. They eat mostly insects and small fish, which they catch by diving into the water. After breeding, they migrate long distances to spend the winter in coastal areas or on large inland lakes. Unfortunately, their numbers have declined due to habitat loss and pollution, so they're considered a vulnerable species that needs protection. Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/black-tern/

The Black Redstart is a small but striking bird found across Europe, Asia, and parts of Africa. These little chaps are quite the lookers, with their jet-black plumage contrasted by vibrant red tails and underbellies. You'll often spot them hopping about on walls and rooftops in towns and cities, nesting in little holes and cracks. Although they seem right at home in urban areas, they actually prefer open, rocky habitats like mountains and quarries. Come breeding season, the male birds put on a fancy display, flashing their red tails to catch a female's eye. These tough little birds can handle some pretty harsh environments, even braving the winter in many regions. Their main grub is insects, but they'll also nibble on the occasional berry or seed. Overall, the Black Redstart is a hardy, adaptable little bird that brings a splash of colour to city life. Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/black-redstart/

The Black Grouse is a chunky game bird found naturally across parts of Europe and Asia. The blokes are the real lookers, decked out in purple-blue plumage along with a reddish-brown tail and vibrant red wattle above their eyes. The ladies on the other hand are camouflaged in drab browns to keep them hidden when nesting. These grouse make their homes in areas like young pine forests and moorlands. Every spring the males gather at special arenas called leks to put on a courtship display, fanning their tails and squawking to try and attract female mates. Sadly, their numbers have declined quite a bit in recent decades, mainly due to habitat loss, though conservation efforts are helping protect what populations remain. Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/black-grouse/

The Bewick's Swan is a migratory bird that visits the UK during the winter after breeding in the Arctic regions of Russia. These elegant swans are easily identified by the yellow patches on their black bills. Smaller than other swan species, they still cut an impressive figure with wingspans around 1.9 metres and weights up to 9 kilograms. In Britain, you can spot flocks of Bewick's Swans at special wetland reserves like Slimbridge in Gloucestershire where they gather. Known for their loud trumpeting and honking calls, these vocal swans have faced population declines but are recovering thanks to conservation work protecting their habitats. Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/bewicks-swan/

The Bearded Tit, scientifically known as Panurus biarmicus, is a fascinating little bird that calls the reedbeds of Europe and Asia home. These feathery friends are easy to spot with their long tails and distinctive black moustache-like markings on their faces, giving them a rather dashing appearance. Despite their name, they're not actually tits but are part of the parrotbill family. Bearded Tits are social birds, often seen flitting about in small family groups, chattering away merrily. They're particularly fond of reed habitats, where they skilfully construct their intricate nests suspended between the reed stems. These birds are true acrobats, clinging upside down to pluck reed seeds and insects with their slender bills. While not endangered, their specialised habitat preferences make them a bit of a special sighting. Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/bearded-tit/

The Barnacle Goose is a striking bird found in the Arctic regions. These geese have a black head, neck, and chest with a white face patch. Their back is grey with black and white bars across the wings. They breed in remote Arctic islands like Svalbard and migrate to places like the UK for winter. Barnacle Geese mate for life and return to the same nest site each year. They mainly eat grass and plants but will also munch on berries, insects, and even molluscs like mussels. Highly social birds, they live in flocks and make a repetitive 'kronk kronk' call. Unfortunately, their numbers declined due to overhunting but conservation efforts have helped populations recover. Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/barnacle-goose/

The Barn Owl, scientifically known as Tyto alba, is a fascinating bird found across the globe. These nocturnal hunters have a distinctive heart-shaped facial disc that aids in their exceptional hearing abilities, allowing them to locate prey with incredible precision. Their silent flight is made possible by their soft, fringed feathers, making them incredibly stealthy hunters. Barn Owls primarily prey on small mammals like mice, voles, and shrews, playing a crucial role in controlling rodent populations. These birds are known for their eerie screeches, which can be heard during the night. They often nest in barns, hence their name, but can also be found in hollow trees or man-made nest boxes. Despite their widespread distribution, Barn Owl populations face threats from habitat loss, pesticide use, and road casualties. Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/barn-owl/

The Bar-Tailed Godwit is a incredible long-distance migrant bird. Every year, these wading birds fly over 11,000 km from their Arctic breeding grounds to locations like Australia and New Zealand. That's one of the longest non-stop journeys of any bird! During migration, they can double their body weight by storing huge fat reserves. On the breeding grounds, their long upturned bills help them pull worms and insects from muddy tundra pools. Though currently widespread, Bar-Tailed Godwit numbers are declining due to habitat loss along their migration routes and at overwintering sites. Protecting these vital stopover points is crucial for their conservation. Learn more: https://binocularbase.com/bird/bar-tailed-godwit/