15/04/17 Ashdown Bird Group Outing

Saturday 15 April 2017
West Sussex

Bob J, Martin and I decided to avoid yet another cancellation for this group and went to RSPB Pulborough Brooks as planned.  The weather was overcast but dry so we decided to extend the trip to include Waltham Brooks and the Burgh.  We were rewarded with a very pleasant birding experience.

RSPB Pulborough Brooks

• We managed to get our target bird, the Nightingale - just!  It was singing in the Fattengates area around 10 am.  It did not go through its full repertoire but it was sufficient to excite the gathering birders.  After 15 minutes or so we moved on. 

• On the return leg of our journey, around lunchtime, I managed to get a fleeting glimpse of it as it disappeared into the scrub - not quite as bad as the Capercaillie view in Scotland but heading that way!  No doubt I will get better views in the next week or so.

• There was very little evidence of migration apart from the ubiquitous Blackcaps that provided the very best of the accompanying music.  

• Hirundines were in short supply with a couple of Swallows and a small flock of Sand Martins our only sightings.

Waltham Brooks

• After lunch, we decided to call in at Waltham Brooks, on the off chance of hearing/seeing a Grasshopper Warbler. Alas, it was not to be - not surprising given the time of day but still worth the effort.

The Burgh

Our final destination was the Burgh where we managed to see most of our target species.

• We had at least 2 excellent sightings of Red Kite.
• There were plenty of Buzzards around.
• The Raven was much appreciated.
• Partridges were abundant - both Red-Legged and Grey.
• No sign of Corn Buntings or Yellowhammers. 

A full day, in excellent company.  We had to work hard for our bird sightings but it was well worth it.