European Bee-eater

The European Bee-eater is one of Europe's most brightly coloured birds. It has golden-brown upper parts, blue-green under parts, a yellow throat with a black border, and a chestnut-coloured crown. Adult birds have long central tail feathers. When flying, their pointed wings and sleek shape are easy to recognise, often accompanied by soft, rolling calls. This bird breeds across southern and central Europe and spends the winter in tropical Africa. Occasionally, some reach as far north as southern England during the summer. They prefer warm, open areas with scattered trees and often nest in groups in sandy banks, cliffs, or flat ground. Unlike other bee-eater species, this bird is specially adapted to cooler climates and makes long-distance migrations. You can often see them catching insects from high perches or chasing prey skillfully in the air.