Shovelard

The Medieval name for the Eurasian Spoonbill was the Shovelard. That makes me laugh, every time.

I’ve seen them in Italy before, but never in the UK:

Spatula

There’s one here at Riserva Statale Pantani dell’Inferno. Its bandy legs are wonderful.There’s no danger of this one’s ‘knees’ (really ankles) knocking together.

Spoonbills were probably far more common in the UK in Medieval times than they are now. Maybe the Medieval Warm Period had something to do with that.

I find them very exciting.

Spoonbill flypast

This one was on its own and spent a pleasant time feeding briskly and then preening.

Which reminds me; I need to eat something and brush my hair.