Hopes high over sight of hoopoes

STRIKING Hoopoe's even been a star in Midsomer Murders

- with STUART WINTER

Nature lovers have every right to feel tickled pink this spring. Candyfloss sunsets and dazzling cherry blossom extravaganzas have left the countryside glowing as if viewed through rose-tinted binoculars.

Yet if anything is going to leave birdwatchers blushing with pride, it will be discovering a scarce visitor that outshines Barbie at looking pretty in pink.

The hoopoe is one of the most recognisable birds on the planet with its outlandish raspberry yoghurt plumage accentuated by chequerboard wings and fancy crest.