Red-necked Phalarope on the Cuckmere

Thursday 4th June 2025

Cuckmere Haven, Sussex

I took the opportunity to twitch the Red-necked Phalarope at Cuckmere Haven after it had just been reported on the last meander of the river.  This is not a common bird in Sussex and is well worth a visit.

I joined another birder at the viewing area, but neither of us could find the phalarope.  Nick Bond was a few metres north of us and appeared to be looking at the bird, so we joined him.  

• True enough, he was on to the bird and allowed us to see it through his telescope.  It was on the east bank, foraging along the edge of the water.  This lovely female was in summer plumage and looked stunning, even from our distant viewing platform.
• After a while, it was disturbed and flew across the river to the other side before disappearing from sight.  After a fruitless search, I left for home.
• The bird did reappear later on, this time a bit further north and thankfully a little closer.  Nick's photograph is shown below.

Courtesy of Nick Bond and X

Thanks Nick!  

Such a beautiful bird!

2025 species count = 180

New Species:

180  Red-necked Phalarope