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A rare bird which hasn't been seen in Nottinghamshire since 1970 has been spotted at a county quarry.

Around 100 avid bird-watchers have gathered at the Cemex quarry, in East Leake, to catch a glimpse of the European bee-eater, which was last seen in the UK in 2015.

However, that number is expected to significantly increase by the weekend, with up to 1,000 people expected to visit the area to spot the seven birds believed to have set up home.

The first bird was spotted on Sunday (June 25), with a further two spotted later that day, and then another four on Monday.

(Image: Sean Browne)

The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) says it is likely the birds will nest in the area, and has deployed volunteers to protect them.

Intentional or reckless disturbance of a bee-eater nest is a criminal offence in the UK.

Mark Thomas, from the RSPB, said: “We are delighted to confirm that seven bee-eaters are currently making themselves at home in East Leake, Nottinghamshire. The birds have been seen mating, so it’s likely they will nest here.

“Bee-eater sightings have been on the increase: pushed northwards by climate change, these exotic birds will likely become established visitors to our shores, and thanks to partnerships like this one with Cemex we can provide the right habitats to accommodate them.”

European bee-eaters have only been known to nest six times in Britain since 1920, but are becoming more common in recent years due to climate change.

Tim Sexton, from Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, said: "As the name suggests they feed mostly on bees however they have also been seen eating dragonflies, butterflies and moths at East Leake.



"Throughout Monday the birds were regularly seen mating and passing food to each other – a strong indication that they are looking to breed.

"The habitat within the quarry should provide all they need in terms of nesting opportunities. There is an active sand martin colony on site and the birds have been seen going to roost with the sand martins each evening.



"We are not yet sure how many pairs are present, however, should they stay to breed then they could be here until mid to end of August.

(Image: RSPB)





"In the last 50 years, there has been just a handful of breeding attempts by this species in the UK and this would be the first for Nottinghamshire."

The trust has been involved in the planning and restoration of the quarry for the last two decades to ensure wildlife is allowed to thrive while it is in operation and after work has been completed.

Dr Rob Lambert, vice-president of Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, added: "The presence of seven bee-eaters at East Leake Quarry in Nottinghamshire is a colourful ornithological tribute to an existing dynamic partnership between Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust and the quarry operators CEMEX that has been developed for over 20 years at the site.

"Sensitive conservation advice working alongside industry has created here not only suitable wetland and sandbank habitats for a thriving sand martin colony, but now serendipitous homes for new Southern European neighbours bringing vibrancy and excitement to an industrial landscape that will in time, once extraction is complete, pass over into full management of the Trust as a local nature reserve.

"It is a lovely public example of what the Wildlife Trusts do best, local partnerships, local places, benefitting birds and people."

The viewing area has been set up at Lings Farm, LE12 6RG, and car parking costs £5, with 50 percent going to RSPB and 50 percent going to the farmer.