Kelp Gull Seen Again at Grafham Water

An unusual sighting has captivated birdwatchers as a kelp gull was spotted at Grafham Water, a reservoir near Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, on Tuesday. This seabird, typically found in the southern hemisphere and coastal regions of West Africa, first appeared at the reservoir two years ago and made a brief return last summer. Anglian Water, which manages the reservoir, expressed delight at the return of this rare species. Mike Carr and Matthew Rodgers, seasoned birdwatchers, were among those fortunate enough to photograph the gull during its latest visit. Rodgers noted that the bird had previously been seen at Grafham Water in 2022, describing the initial sighting as "one of the more amazing records to reach Britain." He expressed hope that the gull would return again, which it did, much to the excitement of the birdwatching community. With the recent sighting, Rodgers anticipates an influx of birdwatchers to the reservoir over the weekend, emphasizing the importance of tracking the bird's movements. The return of the kelp gull has sparked renewed interest among enthusiasts, who are eager to catch a glimpse of this rare visitor. An Anglian Water spokesperson reiterated their excitement about the gull's return, highlighting its rarity in the northern hemisphere. The sighting serves as a reminder of the unique wildlife that can occasionally be found in unexpected places.