Pied Wheatear (Oenanthe pleschanka)

Pied Wheatear breeds from Romania east across central Asia, wintering in central Africa. The species is a rare visitor to Britain, with 1-2 sightings every year.

This bird, a first-winter male, was present around Whitley Bay from 1-12 November and was typically tame. It would use a variety of perched, including the many memorial benches along the Promenade.