Frances Tophill on the Avocet

Gardener and TV presenter Frances Tophill celebrates the avocet, a wader she often sees whilst walking in winter along the Exe estuary. She has always enjoyed the echoes and warbles of marshland birds on the air during her walks, deriving a sense of space from the sound. But had never seen an avocet until she moved to Devon.

These birds are distinctive in their appearance, with an extensive, curved bill, white and deep brown striped plumage and long legs. The avocet is also recognisable as the emblem of the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds.

Presented by Frances Tophill and produced by Jo Peacey. A BBC Audio Bristol production.