A Woodchat Shrike at Rochford

9th May 2021

On the 1st May a male Woodchat Shrike was found at Rochford in Essex. Due to a combination of commitments and weather I was not able to go and see it straight way, but when it was reported on the 9th May it was definitely time for a visit.

The bird was showing well for much of the time and was coming to its favourite Elder bush to within 30 yards, and on the ground under the bushes down to 25 yards, so a bit challenging as it was a fairly small bird. So here are the results from a 5-hour session. It must be one of the best birds I have ever photographed.

And it certainly wasn't going hungry, catching an insect at most attempts, particularly bees.

It was very colourful when perched, but in flight added a new dimension.

What a cracking bird!!!!!