As regular CFZ-watchers will know, for some time Corinna has been doing a column for Animals & Men and a regular segment on On The Track... particularly about out-of-place birds and rare vagrants. There seem to be more and more bird stories from all over the world hitting the news these days so, to make room for them all - and to give them all equal and worthy coverage - she has set up this new blog to cover all things feathery and Fortean.

Saturday 6 October 2012

Rare visitor provides a first for the Uists



A rare cattle egret has flown in to a croft on RSPB Balranald nature reserve on north Uist and is currently making itself at home with the resident cattle. 

This is the first time that a cattle egret has been recorded on the Uists. 

Though cattle egrets are visiting the UK in increasing numbers, most of these are down in the south of England or Wales. 

As the name suggests, cattle egrets often spend time close to livestock, feeding on insects and worms that the animals’ hooves disturb. In the UK, this often means they associate with cattle, sheep or even wild deer, but in Africa it can mean they hang around with hippos! 

Crofter Angus Ferguson said: “When I move my cattle, the egret follows although there are plenty of other cattle in the township. The only explanation must be that I must have the best cattle!” 

Read on:  http://www.stornowaygazette.co.uk/news/local-headlines/rare-visitor-provides-a-first-for-the-uists-1-2561081

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