For the first time since 1877, a blue rock thrush has been spotted in Belgium, according to the nature protection organisation Natuurpunt. A birdwatcher was able to observe the animal in Durbuy, causing a rush to the Ardennes.
The species normally breeds in southern Europe and North Africa and only shows limited migratory behaviour. As they are also predominantly shorebirds, it is not surprising that their numbers are very limited in north-western Europe.
"The bird is currently sitting on rocky outcrops very similar to its natural habitat in southern Europe," Dominique Verbelen of Natuurpunt told VRT. "How the bird ended up here, we will never know, but it is presumably a stray bird."
Credit: Belga
The first and only previous sighting of a blue rock thrush in Belgium dates back to 1877, when a bird was caught in the municipality of Olloy, in Namur.
For Belgian bird fans, the discovery of a blue rock thrush is spectacular news and has already caused a rush of over 100 birdwatchers to descend on Durbuy. "For diehard bird spotters, this bird is an absolute stunner to start the new year. It is very special," Verbelen said.
It is still unclear how long the bird will stay in Belgium, but the chances of finding a (equally) stray female here are nil, he added.
