Bee-eater, Merops apiaster

Local status: Very rare vagrant

The first Bee-eater to have been seen in the York area flew south down the River Derwent and provided one lucky observer with a great local find. This bird appeared two days after one had been seen at Spurn, and the day after one was recorded at Flamborough Head. The second bird was recorded at Thornton Ellers in early August as less typical date for this species.

Records:
1997: Thornton Ellers, 8th August.
1981: Wheldrake Ings, 23rd May.