AUGUST 2019 / UGANDAN BIRD SPOTTED IN THE UK AT RUTLAND WATER
A rare sighting at Rutland Water has caused a few wings to flap this week! Commonly found in Uganda, over 6,000 miles away, the incredible rare Shoebill was spotted on Thursday morning by Senior Reserves Officer for Rutland Water, Rebecca Pitman.
Rebecca said "I couldn't believe my eyes. I first spotted the Shoebill standing stock-still in the reeds, staring at the water. It didn't seem to be bothered my presence at all."
It's speculated that the UK's recent warm weather may be a reason for the Shoebill's unexpected arrival, coupled with the fact that the wetlands of Rutland Water are not too dissimilar from the Shoebill's marshy home in Uganda.
Since the sighting, birdwatchers have been flocking to Rutland Water to catch a glimpse of the rare Ugandan bird, with even-more bird enthusiasts expected to arrive for Birdfair on 16th-18th August, where coincidently Uganda will be exhibiting.
Did we fool you?
The Shoebill at Rutland Water was a promotional stunt for this weekend's Birdfair. We hope we didn't ruffle anyone's feathers!
Tourism Uganda exhibits at Birdfair this Friday 16th to Sunday 18th August, where visitors can view the life-size version of the pre-historic looking bird. Birdfair is the largest birdwatching and wildlife show in the UK with many exhibitors across the three days.
This year, Tourism Uganda will be bringing extra excitement to the event with lively competitions and quizzes. For the chance to win a £300 voucher towards an amazing birding holiday to Uganda courtesy of NatureTrek, make sure you visit the Tourism Uganda stand at Marquee 7, Stand 59. Also keep your eye out for ‘Golden Feathers’ on tour operator stands, which can be exchanged for a prize at the Tourism Uganda stand.