Like bees to honey, birdwatchers have been flocking to a spot on the Norfolk coast to catch a glimpse of three ultra rare birds which have made a historic return to the county.

The birders are heading to a sand quarry at Trimingham where a trio of bee-eaters, including a nesting pair, have been spotted.

The RSPB said it was the first time the summer visitors had returned to the same breeding site in the UK in consecutive years.

News of the birds' return has seen enthusiasts from far and wide swarm to the area, with a public viewing area created by the RSPB to accommodate visitors.

Eastern Daily Press: Crowds have rushed to get one of the first looks at the bee-eatersCrowds have rushed to get one of the first looks at the bee-eaters (Image: Denise Bradley)

On Friday, around 25 birders were training their binoculars on the site looking for a glimpse, with more expected to head there over the weekend.

Simon Chidwick was among those who have had the least far to travel.

The 53-year-old, from Overstrand, has been observing the birds for the last few weeks to make sure none were disturbed before the RSPB could start monitoring the site.

"Nobody expected them to turn up again, so it was very exciting. No one really knows why they came last year, so it is hard to say why they have chosen to come back," he said.

"It is presumed they are the same birds, who knew they liked the site and were successful here last year and felt safe here.

READ MORE: Rare bee-eaters make unprecedented Norfolk return in UK first

Eastern Daily Press: Simon Chidwick from Overstrand, at Trimingham to see the Bee-eater birds during their return to NorfolkSimon Chidwick from Overstrand, at Trimingham to see the Bee-eater birds during their return to Norfolk (Image: Denise Bradley)

"They usually nest in sandy banks and it is south facing with a ready supply of food.

"They eat a wide range of insects, including bees. But they also eat a wide range of insects which are parasites to bees.

Eastern Daily Press: Caroline Small with her husband, Andrew, and son Samuel, from Buckinghamshire, at Trimingham to see the Bee-eater birds during their return to NorfolkCaroline Small with her husband, Andrew, and son Samuel, from Buckinghamshire, at Trimingham to see the Bee-eater birds during their return to Norfolk (Image: Denise Bradley)

"We hope the weather stays good as otherwise they may not stay. They spend their winter in Africa, so they have come a long way - but being aerial feeders, they can take their time."

Mark Thomas, from the RSPB, said it was a "real possibility" they were the same birds as last year, suggesting it could be the start of bee-eaters "properly colonising the UK".

While providing a thrill for birders, the return of the species has prompted concern too, with experts saying it is another sign of climate change. Their usual habitat is further south.

The birds are about the size of a starling with claret-red backs, yellow throats and turquoise bellies.

Eastern Daily Press: Bee-eater birds return to NorfolkBee-eater birds return to Norfolk (Image: Denise Bradley)