06/06/2019 Nightjars and Woodcock at Hindleap in the Ashdown Forest

Wednesday 5th June 2019

Part of a huge group (25) of members of the East Grinstead RSPB group who visited Hindleap tonight just before sunset.

• We took the circuitous route down to Brian and Jane's seat.  The scene was dominated by the Blackbirds and Song Thrushes as they sang heartily from the trees.  Also seen or heard were Chiffchaff, Whitethroat, Stonechat, Willow Warbler, Herring Gull and Blackcap.
• We saw our first Woodcock about 9.20 pm as it flew anticlockwise over the treetops as part of it's "roding" performance.
• Not long after we were summoned down to the path to the right of the seat where some of the group had heard and seen a couple of Nightjars.  We were surprised not to have heard them from our viewing point but we were pleased to be rewarded with good views of 2 birds as they flew above the treeline and up the hill.  A third bird was seen flying in the opposite direction.
• As we made our way up the hill to the favoured tree at the second site, some of the group caught a glimpse of another Nightjar flying low over the scrub.  Thankfully we soon heard the characteristic "churring" of the male and soon afterwards it was seen briefly making the usual "coo-wik" sound as it flew.  While we were waiting, a Woodcock flew directly overhead, affording superb views.
• The resident Tawny Owl could be heard frequently during our visit.

A good outing with good views of at least 3 Nightjars and 2 Woodcock.  The only surprise was the lack of a really close churring Nighjar.  Maybe we can correct this in 2 weeks time when we go on our second and final walk.