A vibrant and unusual hoopoe bird has been spotted on the beaches of Swansea, attracting bird enthusiasts eager to catch a glimpse of this striking visitor.

Birdwatchers in Swansea have been treated to an extraordinary sighting—a rare hoopoe bird, a species not native to the UK, has been seen strutting along the sands of Swansea Bay. The hoopoe, known for its vibrant pinkish-brown feathers and striking black-and-white wings, also boasts a crown-like crest, which it raises when excited. This remarkable appearance, along with its distinct “whooping” call, has turned Swansea Bay into a gathering spot for ornithologists and wildlife enthusiasts alike.

The Eurasian hoopoe, typically found in northern Africa and parts of southern Europe, is rarely spotted in the UK. These birds occasionally get blown off course during their migrations, and this one seems to have found its way to the Welsh coast. Though hoopoes don’t breed in Britain, birdwatchers on the south coast of England and, occasionally, Wales have witnessed the odd hoopoe sighting when luck and weather patterns align.

Wildlife photographer and scientist Dr Emmanuelle Juan was among those fortunate enough to capture images of the stunning bird. “It was an absolute delight,” she said, sharing how she watched the bird enjoy a breakfast of grubs and worms. “What a wonderful bird. It’s not every day you see something like this,” she added, marvelling at its graceful behaviour and unique look.

The hoopoe’s presence has caused quite a stir in the local birdwatching community. Sightings have been eagerly shared on social media and the Gower Ornithological Society’s website. One member of the society described the bird as the star of an “adoring crowd,” drawing spectators eager to photograph its colourful plumage and raised crest, which gives the bird an almost regal appearance.

Many birdwatchers are also intrigued by the bird’s characteristic call, which gives it its name—hoopoe. The rapid “whoop-whoop” sound is not easily forgotten and, for those familiar with the bird from holidays in southern Europe or Africa, hearing it in Swansea has been surreal.

The hoopoe is one of the more visually distinctive birds that have visited Swansea in recent years. Its crest, which opens like a fan, is one of its most recognisable features. This, along with the black-and-white stripes on its wings, makes it easy to identify, even from a distance. While it might be a rare sight in Wales, it is celebrated in many parts of the world for its beauty. In ancient times, the hoopoe was often associated with various myths and legends due to its striking appearance.

Birdwatchers in Swansea are no strangers to rare sightings. The region’s diverse habitats—ranging from its sweeping coastal areas to the rolling hills of the Gower Peninsula—are well-known for attracting migratory birds. However, the hoopoe is an especially exciting visitor, and its sudden appearance has brought many people to the beach with binoculars in hand.

Dr Juan mentioned that watching the bird’s behaviour, from hunting worms to interacting with the environment, was fascinating. She observed the hoopoe’s calm and methodical movements, noting how at ease it seemed despite the gathering crowd. “It was as if the bird knew it was putting on a show,” she joked, referencing the way it strutted across the beach.

This is not the first time Wales has hosted rare bird visitors. Similar stories have surfaced over the years, such as the appearance of white kites and even rare ospreys disturbed by drones. Yet, this hoopoe has captured the imagination of both seasoned birdwatchers and those new to the hobby. The hoopoe’s presence serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of nature and the unexpected beauty it can bring.

For Swansea locals, the bird has added a touch of magic to their autumnal walks along the bay. As the days grow cooler, the sight of such a colourful and rare bird has been a real treat. Families, photographers, and even casual beachgoers have found themselves stopping to take a closer look, marvel at its striking colours, and perhaps snap a photo.

While sightings like this are often brief, the impact they leave lingers much longer. The excitement of a rare bird sighting can draw attention to conservation efforts, as people are reminded of the importance of protecting the habitats these birds need. Whether this hoopoe continues its journey south or stays in Swansea a little longer, it has already left a lasting impression on the area.

For now, the beaches of Swansea Bay have become a hub of excitement, as bird lovers from all over the region flock to catch a glimpse of this remarkable visitor before it takes to the skies once again.