Blue-winged trio

Up to three Blue-winged Teal were discovered in March, marking the best showing of the species at this time of year for 25 years.

AN excellent showing of up to three Blue-winged Teal in March came as a surprise – 1997 is the only other year so many have been present simultaneously in Britain and Ireland during the month. They included a potential first for Buckinghamshire, a female at Marlow from 28th – although some features, such as the spatulate bill, may suggest Cinnamon Teal.

A female at Berry Fen, Cambridgeshire, from 30th attracted plenty of attention from a few local Garganey. Another, an adult drake, was at Tacumshin, Co Wexford, on 28th. ■

Blue-winged Teal records: Buckinghamshire, Cambridgeshire and Co Wexford, 28-30 March 2022

The Buckinghamshire Blue-winged Teal attracted plenty of birders, although debate has raged over whether or not this individual is perhaps a Cinnamon Teal or a hybrid.