Gallery: 20 Common British Birds

Britain has a surprisingly diverse set of commonly found birds, as showcased by this list of 20 of the most numerous:

1. Blue Tit

Renowned as one of the most attractive garden visitors.

2. Barn Owl

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A distinctive, countryside bird which is popularly nocturnal.

3. Blackbird

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One of the most common birds in the UK, known for its fantastic song.

4. Swan

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Once protected by the monarchy, this elegant creature has become a staple of British culture. Several species are seen in Britain – with the Mute Swan being the most common.

5. Red Kite

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This previously dwindling bird of prey has grown in numbers thanks to a protection scheme.

5. Puffin

By Boaworm – Own work, CC BY 3.0, Link

This adorable, kid’s favourite somewhat resembles a penguin.

7. Kingfisher

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This dazzling bird is often spotted next to rivers throughout the UK.

8. Robin

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One of the nation’s favourite birds, the Robin is synonymous with winter.

9. Wren

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As one of the UK’s smallest birds, the Wren packs a powerful voice.

10. Chaffinch

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The most common member of the finch family in the UK.

11. Mallard

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The most common duck in the UK.

12. Goldfinch

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This pretty bird is common British gardens.

13. Great Tit

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The larger relative to the Blue Tit, it is another garden regular.

14. Heron

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This graceful bird frequents waterways and fishes using it’s strong beak.

15. Kestrel

By Charlesjsharp – Own work, from Sharp Photography, sharpphotography, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link

Often seen hovering over the British countryside, this small bird of prey hunts mice and small animals.

16. Starling

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This noisy bird nests in huge numbers, often on city buildings, casing a racket at dusk.

17. Cuckoo

By Cuculus_canorus_vogelartinfo_chris_romeiks_CHR0791.jpg: Vogelartinfo
derivative work: Bogbumper (talk) – Cuculus_canorus_vogelartinfo_chris_romeiks_CHR0791.jpg, GFDL 1.2, Link

The sound of the cuckoo is the inspiration for a thousand clocks.

18. House Sparrow

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The humble house sparrow is the most common bird in Britain.

19. Lapwing

Photo by Jo Reeve

This pretty crested wading bird is a regular near water and farmland.

20. Swallow

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The arrival of this sleek bird is seen as heralding the start of summer.