Twitching at Sovereign Harbour in Eastbourne

Tuesday 2nd December 2025

Sovereign Harbour, Eastbourne

I persuaded Martin to join me on an afternoon "twitch" to see the Black Guillemot at Sovereign Harbour in Eastbourne.  

• The bird was showing well at the harbour mouth, along with some Cormorants and Great-crested Grebes.  It was first seen on 27th November 2025.

Courtesy of Martin Jeffree

• There was also a Common Guillemot close by.

Courtesy of Martin Jeffree

• Just outside the harbour entrance, I caught a glimpse of a diver - probably the Great Northern Diver that was seen earlier by others.

Courtesy of Martin Jeffree

2025 species count = 199

Black Guillemot          198

Common Guillemot    199

Ashdown Bird Group Visit to Fishbourne Creek and West Dean Woods

 Ashdown Bird Group – Trip Summary

On Sunday 30th November 2025, 11 members enjoyed a glorious day of birding at Fishbourne Creek and West Dean Woods. 

• The morning delivered 56 coastal species, highlighted by a striking Black Swan among flocks of waders and wintering Brent Geese. 

Black Swan

Courtesy of Ian Hodgson

Brent Geese

Courtesy of Phil Aylen

• The afternoon brought woodland treasures, including Hawfinches, Crossbills, and raptors such as Red Kite and Buzzard. 

Hawfinch

Courtesy of Phil Aylen

Red Kite

Courtesy of Alison Playle

• By day’s end, the group had tallied an impressive 69 species, making this one of the year’s standout outings.

2025 species count = 197