Yes, it’s true! Britain’s rarest woodpecker has taken up residence at Newport Wetlands – temporarily at least.
The wryneck is the rarest of Britain’s four species of woodpecker, the others being great spotted woodpecker, lesser spotted woodpecker and green woodpecker.
Usually a shy bird, this particular wryneck has been very obliging to those hoping to get a peek and a photograph as it feeds on the ground along one of the paths running through the middle of the reserve.
It was first spotted yesterday by a regular visitor and you can see his photograph on our forum here. It was still showing this afternoon and we’re keeping everything crossed that it will stick around for a few more days.
A specially protected species, there have been some years recently when no breeding birds have been recorded. Autumn is the best time of year to see wrynecks as the number of migrants passing through the UK can be up to 300 in a good year, though they tend to be more likely to stick to the east and south coasts.
Make sure you come down to Newport Wetlands soon to get a peek of this beautiful bird. Pop in to the Visitor Centre to ask for specific directions and don’t forget to let us know if you’re lucky!
I've added more photos to that thread now.