A FLOCK of rare waxwings were spotted in Ramsey in January much to the delight of local birdwatchers.

The Scandinavian birds were spotted feasting on the berries of rowan trees alongside the roundabout close to Ramsey Bakery.

The birds attracted large numbers of bird lovers and photographers, who watched at close quarters, with one birdwatcher counting a total of 55.

Chris Sharpe, the director of Manx Bird Life, said: "They aren't used to humans so they don't have any fear and will let you get quite close. It offered a wonderful opportunity for photographers to get really close."

It was the first time that waxwings had been spotted in any numbers for three years and a flock of 55 is believed to be one of the largest to visit the Isle of Man for several years.

The waxwing is a winter visitor - it doesn't breed in Britain but groups will travel in fairly large numbers during an "irruption" when the population on its breeding grounds gets too big for the food available.

Waxwings are similar in size to starlings but have very distinctive markings and a prominent crest. They are pale reddish brown in colour with a brighter red head, a black throat and a black mask around the eyes which often makes them look angry.

The wings are also distinctive with bright yellow, red and white at the tips and a bright yellow tip on the tail.

They were feasting on rowan berries (mountain ash) in Ramsey but will also feed on hawthorn, cotoneaster and rose hips.

This story is part of isleofman.com's Review of the Year 2011.