An exotic-looking bird more commonly found in South Africa than the UK has been spotted in North Norfolk.
Hoopoes are medium-sized with long, broad, rounded wings, slightly curved bills and unique fan-like crests that open over the top of the head.
Mark Clements spotted the rarity on Beeston bump yesterday morning (Wednesday, April 12) however the sighting was "unfortunately very brief as it was scared by a dog and flew off in a westerly direction."
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Sophie Barker, warden of the Norfolk Ornithologists Association said: "It's definitely an exciting spot for a birdwatcher, they're quite unusual and they are only seen occasionally in Norfolk."
"The species doesn't breed in the UK or continental Europe. They are annual migrant birds and can sometimes be seen in Europe during the springtime."
The creatures favour open grassland meaning the Beeston bump provides an excellent vantage point to see the rare bird.
One of the birds was spotted in 2020 at Wells-next-to-the-sea by Brad Damms who was among 20 other birdwatchers enjoying the rare spectacle.
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