First Honey Buzzards of the Season

Saturday 23rd May 2026

Former Llama Park, Ashdown Forest, Sussex

Following some timely advice from our county expert Mark Mallalieu, Martin and I headed out for our first Honey Buzzard watch of the year. Mark had noted that many of the returning birds were already back on territory across South East England, and that the period from now until early June offers the best opportunity to see them before breeding females become much more elusive later in the summer.

With that encouragement ringing in our ears, we made our way to the well-publicised raptor watchpoint near the old Llama Park, hopeful but quietly confident. Before long, we were joined by three other birders, including our very own raptor guru, Alastair G.

Almost on cue, the first Honey Buzzard appeared over the woodland, drifting effortlessly across the sky. Over the course of the morning we enjoyed multiple sightings, with at least three different birds identified. Each appearance brought that familiar mix of excitement and concentration as we tried to pick up every detail through binoculars and scopes.

Courtesy of Martin Jeffree

Courtesy of Martin Jeffree

Then came the highlight of the morning. One of the birds suddenly began a wing-clapping display high above the trees. It was an extraordinary sight and one we will not forget in a hurry. Seeing Honey Buzzards at all always feels special, but witnessing this behaviour was something else entirely.

A perfect morning in excellent company, and a superb start to the Honey Buzzard season.

New species for the 2026 Year List:
167 Honey Buzzard