Kingfishers nest this summer

Posted: 21/09/2012

We are delighted to report that this summer there have been at least two hatches of Kingfisher eggs on our stretch of river, close to The Old Vicarage. 

These distinctive bright blue and orange birds are usually only seen as an electric blue flash whilst hunting for fish, making them quite a difficult bird to spot. They fly rapidly and low over the water, using riverside perches as launch pads. The eggs themselves are laid in a nest at the end of a burrow in the riverbank.

We feel extremely privileged that these wonderful birds have made their home with us. Kingfishers are on the ‘amber’ list of birds in the three categories of conservation importance (with red being the highest priority and amber the next most critical group). They are particularly vulnerable to habitat degradation through pollution or unsympathetic management of the watercourse.

The River Swale that flows through our land provides an excellent wildlife habitat, supporting many species of birds, fish and mammals. Guests have exclusive access to the river and - with a bit of quiet and patience - can see birds like the Kingfisher.

An Osprey was also recently seen flying above our land, which is a very rare sight in these parts.