West Sussex
Over 20 members travelled today - our best attendance for an outdoor event for some time. We were rewarded with some very good birding and a species count well in excess of 50. This despite an awful weather forecast. Thankfully, the expected heavy downpours were behind schedule and we enjoyed relatively comfortable conditions.
Shaun, wisely, decided to switch the order of events so we started at The Burgh before going round the RSPB reserve in the afternoon.
The Burgh
As you would expect, the raptors dominated proceedings and we saw 5 species.. - Most ubiquitous were the Red Kites which delighted everyone as they performed their aerobatics.
- Not to be outdone, the Buzzards put on a good show and Kestrels flew overhead periodically.
- Kevin spotted a Peregrine on the ground and things got even better when it took to the air and tussled with a corvid.
- Star bird however was the Ring-tailed Hen Harrier spotted by Alastair. It flew low over the hedges, less than 100 metres from our viewing point - awesome!
Both types of partridge were seen.
- We flushed 10+ as we walked close to the edge of the crop field.
- A little later, as we started back to the cars, we watched 5+ Red-legged Partridges as they went about their business, totally oblivious to our presence.
We also struck lucky with winter thrushes.
- Redwing and Fieldfares were showing well.
Only 22 species seen but what quality!
RSPB Pulborough Brooks
The weather held out for us as we changed venue to RSPB Pulborough Brooks.- Pick of the water birds was Pintail with at least 6 males showing really well.
- Peregrines turned up here too with good sightings.
Another very enjoyable group outing!
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