Abberton Spoonbills Update

11th August 2021

Spoonbills were once a rare sight in the UK but as with the egrets are now becoming more common in many areas. Abberton is no exception and over the last few years they have been recorded here more regularly. But this year they have bred which is not only a first for Abberton but also a first for Essex. On our last visit two young had hatched and were being cared for by the adults. So now four weeks later it is time for another visit to see how they are getting on.

The young are now quite big and it won't be long before they leave the nest and go for a walkabout in the trees.

At that point one of the adults returned to the nest with so food.

This was welcomed by the two youngsters and they soon began begging to be fed.

Eventually the adult gave in and began feeding the youngsters. I don't think I would want even one of the smaller bills down my throat!!

The Spoonbill chicks hatched towards the end of the first week in July and with a fledging period of 45-50 days should be taking their first flight over the next few days. Let's hope they feed near one of the causeways.