Chough
Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax
Length 40cm

A jackdaw-sized bird with glossy, all-dark plumage and bright red legs and long, downcurved bill. Almost exclusively coastal, favouring dry, grassy slopes in summer but sometimes visiting beaches in winter. A local and rather scarce species, found mainly in W Wales, Islay and Ireland. Often nests in sea caves. Outside breeding season, forms flocks. Recognised in flight by broad, 'fingered' wingtips and frequently uttered chyah call. Probes ground for insects.