Chough

Whilst its black plumage identifies it as a crow, the Chough has a red bill and legs unlike any other member of the crow family. It readily displays its mastery of flight with wonderful aerial displays of diving and swooping and can be found in flocks in autumn and winter.

The Chough has a restricted westerly distribution in the UK and because of its small population size and historically declining populations it is an Amber List species. The best places to see Chough are north and west Wales, Islay in west Scotland and the Isle of Man, although they have also recently recolonised Cornwall.

Date: 6th November 2007

Location: Machrie, Islay, Argyll