Influx of Nutcrackers a sweet treat for birdwatchers!

The Nutcracker might be one of the world's most well-known ballets, but this week another Nutcracker has been in the spotlight for birdwatchers!

Following a large influx of Slender-billed Northern Nutcrackers (Nutcrackers for short) into nearby continental countries, a sighting in the UK has been anticipated all autumn, and birdwatchers' wishes came true when one was found in Norfolk over the weekend.

Rare birds often cause plenty of excitement, but it's fair to say that some cause more than others. Nutcrackers are members of the crow family, but like the Jay, they don't have the typical monochrome appearance of a Carrion Crow or Raven.

Coming from much colder climes, it's quite fitting that Nutcrackers are covered in snow-like speckles almost from beak to toe, with only the wings and cap remaining plain. Combined with a chunky beak and a sometimes very bold nature, they are a real draw for any birdwatcher.

Influxes of this species, like the one we've seen on the near continent, are not unheard of. Often called irruptions, they occur when food is in short supply within the birds' normal range. In the case of the Nutcracker, pine seed crops in Siberia have likely failed, causing many birds to venture west in search of food.

There was a famous irruption in 1968 when more than 300 made it to the UK, but nothing on that scale has been seen since. With the last easily seeable bird being recorded in 1991, many UK birdwatchers will never have had the chance to see one of these speckled spectaculars on home soil before. With a combination of anticipation and good looks, it's no surprise this Nutcracker has attracted so much attention.

There's every chance that more may arrive this autumn, but irruptions are often unpredictable. The next bird could turn up anywhere. Might we even see one reported in next year's Big Garden Birdwatch? We'll have to wait and see.

Don’t get caught out by a much more common species which can cause confusion – the Starling! Here’s our top tips for separating these Siberian rarities from Starlings in their speckled winter plumage.

Head to our wildlife hub for this month’s nature highlights, including what to see now and all about migration.