Extinct in the UK during the 19^th Century, avocets returned to British shores during the Second World War, when parts of East Anglia’s coastline were closed to the public and flooded as a military defence, giving them the protection they needed to re-establish. Once confined to the east coast, this species has made a remarkable comeback, as they have now spread westward and can be seen nesting on the south coast, including at Lymington and Keyhaven Marshes Nature Reserve.

About the size of an oystercatcher but far more slender, the avocet or 'pied avocets' as they are known globally, is a master of the shallow lagoons and mudflats where it feeds. It sweeps its unique bill side to side through the water to find aquatic insects, worms, and tiny crustaceans - an elegant feeding technique that’s fascinating to watch. 

Avocets are stunning in appearance. Their crisp white feathers are broken only by bold black markings across the wings and back, and a black cap that sweeps from the top of the head down the back of the neck. In flight, their striking colour pattern becomes even more visible, with contrasting wing bars and long legs trailing behind. Their high-pitched, musical calls add to their charm and make them a favourite among birdwatchers.

In spring, avocets breed on exposed mud, creating shallow scrapes in the earth where they lay their camouflaged eggs. This makes their nests highly vulnerable to disturbance, especially from people and dogs wandering off paths.

Lymington and Keyhaven is a haven for wildlife at this time of year, and is also home to other ground-nesting birds such as redshank and oystercatcher. The arrival of avocets each year is a seasonal highlight for birdwatchers and nature lovers, but it’s vital that we all help protect them. These ground-nesting birds can abandon their nests if disturbed, leaving eggs or chicks exposed to the elements and predators. Visitors to reserves are asked to keep to footpaths, enjoy wildlife from a distance, and keep dogs on leads at all times.