UK Birds Beginning With A

Birdwatching in the United Kingdom is a delightful pursuit, offering a rich tapestry of avian wonders. British garden birds are more diverse than you might think too!

In this comprehensive A-Z guide, we're diving into the diverse avian breeds that call the United Kingdom home, with a special focus on those that begin with the letter A.

From vibrant plumage to melodious songs, these bird species contribute to the rich tapestry of British wildlife. Join us on a captivating journey through the skies as we explore the avian beauties that start with the first letter of the alphabet. 

Bird species beginning with A

Avocet

Commencing our exploration of avian wonders, let's spotlight the Avocet (Recurvirostra avosetta), a graceful wading bird known for its distinctive black and grey head coupled with pristine white plumage.

Sporting a slender bill with a distinct upward curve, the Avocet adeptly navigates shallow waters, skilfully seizing small invertebrates such as insects and crustaceans.

This enchanting bird species frequently graces coastal areas, estuaries, and wetlands widespread across the United Kingdom. Noteworthy sightings include the picturesque RSPB Minsmere in Suffolk and the scenic RSPB Titchwell Marsh in central Norfolk, where the Avocet adds to the natural allure of these location.

 

Arctic Skua

Explore the high Arctic regions and seize the chance to witness the Arctic Skua during its migration periods in the UK.

This formidable seabird showcases a striking dark plumage, brownish-black body, and pale underparts. Renowned for its assertive defence of nests, the Arctic Skua engages in captivating aerial pursuits, skilfully snatching food from other seabirds.

Coastal areas, such as the Shetland Islands and the Orkney Islands, offer optimal vantage points to observe these agile birds in their natural habitat.

Arctic Tern

The Arctic Tern, a medium-sized seabird, claims the title for the longest migration route of any known animal. Distinguished by silver-grey upperparts, white underparts, and a deeply forked tail, these avian wonders breed in the Arctic and undertake an awe-inspiring journey to the Antarctic and back.

During the summer months, the Artic Tern becomes a temporary resident of UK coastline, enchanting birdwatchers at popular spots like the Farne Islands in Northumberland and the Isle of May in northwest Scotland. Witness the remarkable spectacle of these migrants as they grace the British shores with their elegant presence.

African Sacred Ibis (Threskiornis aethiopicus):

Although not native to the UK, the African Sacred Ibis has established feral populations in certain areas. Recognizable by its large size, white plumage, and distinct downward-curved bill, this large wading bird gathers in groups, foraging for invertebrates and small vertebrates in wetland habitats.

Somerset, Wales, and East Anglia are among the UK locations where sightings of the African Sacred Ibis can be enjoyed.

Alpine Accentor (Prunella collaris):

 The Alpine Accentor, a small songbird native to mountainous regions of Europe, occasionally graces the UK during winter months. Featuring a grey-brown plumage, pale throat, and a melodious song, this elusive bird may be spotted in upland areas such as the Scottish Highlands, the Lake District, and the Peak District.

This bird species adds a touch of wild charm to the winter landscape, exploring low vegetation and rocky slopes.

American Bittern (Botaurus lentiginosus):

 An uncommon visitor from across the Atlantic, the American Bittern occasionally graces the UK's wetlands. Medium-sized herons with remarkable camouflage, these birds blend seamlessly into reed beds and tree top while hunting for fish, amphibians, and small mammals.

Locations like the RSPB Leighton Moss in west Lancashire and the Norfolk Broads offer opportunities to witness the stealthy movements of the American Bittern.

American Coot (Fulica americana):

 Contrary to its name, the American Coot occasionally makes appearances in UK waters. Resembling a small duck with a black body, white bill, and distinctive lobed toes, American Coots' adults are skilled swimmers and divers.

Freshwater habitats, including lakes, ponds, and reservoirs, provide both natural habitats and ideal settings for observing these birds. Keep an eye out in locations such as WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre and the RSPB Loch Leven. 

American Golden Plover (Pluvialis dominica):

 During autumn and spring migrations, lucky birdwatchers may catch a glimpse of the American Golden Plover bird in the UK. Medium-sized shorebirds with striking black and gold-spotted upperparts, they forage in fields and coastal mudflats, preparing for their long journey. The Western Isles of Scotland and coastal areas in East Anglia are ideal spots for spotting these captivating migratory visitors.

American Wigeon (Mareca americana):

 With vibrant plumage and a distinctive whistling call, the American Wigeon stands out among its European relatives. Despite small bird being a rare visitor to the UK, its identification is relatively straightforward. Male American Wigeons, with their reddish-brown head, pale blue-grey bill, and conspicuous white forehead patch, can be seen in wetlands. Locations like RSPB Minsmere and the North Norfolk coast offer potential sightings.

Anhinga (Anhinga anhinga):

 An occasional rarity in the UK, the Anhinga is a large waterbird primarily residing in the Americas. Also known as the "snakebird" due to its long, slender neck, the Anhinga is a skilled swimmer and diver.

Black plumage, a long pointed bill, and distinctive yellow eyes characterize males of this intriguing water bird call. Coastal areas and wetlands, such as RSPB Titchwell Marsh and RSPB Minsmere, are potential locations for sightings.

 

Aquatic Warbler

The Aquatic Warbler (Acrocephalus paludicola) is a small, elusive passerine bird that inhabits wetland habitats across Europe and western Russia. This delicate warbler is recognized for its subtle yet charming appearance, featuring a beige-brown plumage adorned with intricate streaks and a pale supercilium. What sets the Aquatic Warbler apart is its strong affinity for marshy areas, where it skilfully navigates through tall reeds and grasses. This migratory species embarks on impressive journeys, covering substantial distances between its breeding grounds in Europe, particularly in Poland, Belarus, and Ukraine, and its wintering areas in sub-Saharan Africa.

 

From the elegant Avocet to the elusive Alpine Accentor and the occasional American visitors, each bird contributes to the richness of the UK's birdwatching experience. So, whether you're exploring coastal areas, wetlands, or upland regions, keep your binoculars ready for an unforgettable avian adventure in the United Kingdom. The skies and landscapes are brimming with avian wonders, awaiting your discovery.

If you're interested in enticing these species into your garden our wildlife products are perfect! Find out more here. Such as wooden bird tables and bird nest boxes.

Other bird species beginning with A include:

Albatross

African Pitta

Antpitta

American Avocet

Allen's Hummingbird

Antbird family