A rare Myrtle Warbler bird has set a new record after being spotted in Jimmy Crawford’s garden for 38 days – the longest time the species has been in the UK. This particular bird has attracted visitors and Twitchers from as far away as Cornwall. Jimmy, a resident of Kilwinning, Ayrshire, has allowed bird watchers and photographers to come and see the rare bird. The bird has been identified as a male, as its feathers have started changing colors. This sighting marks the longest recorded time for a Myrtle Warbler to stay in the UK, according to British Birds.
People have traveled from different parts of the UK, including London and Cornwall, to catch a glimpse of this rare bird in Jimmy’s garden. There have been days when the garden has had long queues of visitors waiting to see the Myrtle Warbler. Amateur photographer and friend of Jimmy, Stevie Clarke, revealed that birdwatchers initially thought the warbler was a female, but as its feathers started to change colors, it became evident that it is a male. The transformation process has attracted more visitors hoping to witness the complete change in feathers.
Amidst the excitement of visitors coming to see the Myrtle Warbler, a fundraiser was set up by a birdwatcher named Wayne Glossop from Sheffield to support a local charity. Visitors now have the option to donate to a JustGiving page, with the proceeds going to North Ayrshire Cancer Care. Jimmy’s decision to donate the funds to the charity was influenced by a family member currently undergoing cancer care. The JustGiving page has raised a substantial amount, with donations continuing to flow in to support a worthy cause.
Despite the remarkable attention the Myrtle Warbler has received and the generosity of visitors donating to the charity, Jimmy has refused any compensation offered by visitors. He continues to welcome people to his garden to see the bird and experience the rare sighting. The presence of the Myrtle Warbler in Jimmy’s garden has created a sense of community as people from different regions come together to witness this unique bird. The bird’s extended stay in the garden has created a sense of wonder and has brought people closer while supporting a cause that is close to Jimmy’s heart.
The Myrtle Warbler is a regular sight in most of North America but is a very rare visitor to Britain and Ireland. Its prolonged stay in Jimmy’s garden has provided a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for birdwatchers and enthusiasts to observe this unusual visitor up close. The uniqueness of the sighting and the bird’s changing appearance have added an element of excitement and anticipation among those who come to watch the bird. The record-breaking stay of the Myrtle Warbler and the community support surrounding it have made this event particularly special for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts alike.
