Black-winged kite spotted in Hickling Broad in Norfolk

A black-winged kite, seen only once before in Wales, was sighted in the early hours of Tuesday morning in Hickling Broad, near Potter Heigham.

The kite is a species native to sub-Saharan Africa and tropical Asia but has a foothold within Europe - most notably in Spain, Portugal and France.

A map of the kite's global distribution (Image: Alexander Kürthy)

The first UK sighting of the bird was in Powys in April.

It is not known how long the bird stayed in Wales or if it is the same bird which is now in the Hickling vicinity.

Robert Morgan, Norfolk Wildlife Trust reserves officer, said: "Black-winged kites have been widely predicted as the next new bird to Britain.

"Still, it is incredible that a non-migratory bird of prey that has spread from North Africa into Europe has now turned up in Norfolk – and even more special that it has chosen to show at Hickling.

"They are certainly stunning to watch with their long wings, white, grey and black plumage and owl-like forward-facing eyes."

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According to the Trust, Norfolk has seen a number of rare avian visitors in recent years, including great white egrets and bee-eaters. 

Recovery Manager, Helen Baczkowska, added: "We suspect this is linked to our changing climate.

"Pressures such as extreme heat in the areas these species would usually live are affecting their favoured habitats and reducing the availability of food.

"This is likely to be pushing them to seek out more hospitable areas to live and breed."

Nature officers could not estimate how long the kite would be in Norfolk and recommended visitors keep an eye out for a chance to spot the winged tourist.