Two Eurasian Oystercatchers that have outlived the species’ average lifespan by three decades have been recorded by the Wash Wader Research Group (WWRG), twice breaking longevity records for the species in the UK. 'I he first, discovered in February 2025 at Snettisham in Norfolk, was estimated to be 41 years and eight months old - it had been ringed as a chick at Kelling Quags in Norfolk in 1983. Just weeks later, an even older bird - ringed in 1982 as an adult and so now at least 46 years old - was found on the other side of The Wash in Lincolnshire. Both individuals were reported to be in good health and, since the species shows strong site fidelity, are thought to have spent every winter on The Wash since being ringed.

Dr Ellie Leech, Head of the BTO Ringing Scheme, said: “We know that the average Oystercatcher lives for 12 years, but birds in their 20s and 30s are regularly recorded, so these two birds are old but not completely unexpected.’

Jim Scott, RSPB Estate Operations manager at Titchwell Marsh and Snettisham Reserve, said: ‘Oystercatchers rely on The Wash mudflats for food as they are jam- packed with invertebrates such as ragworms, snails and shellfish. So, in some ways, it’s not really a surprise that these two record- breaking Oystercatchers choose to spend every winter here. As time goes on, we may find the longevity record of Oystercatchers keeps getting extended... it just shows how important it is that we protect these areas’