Ashdown Bird Group Visit to Isle of Sheppey

 Ashdown Bird Group – Trip Report

Elmley Nature Reserve & Capel Fleet

Sunday 4 January 2026

13 members attending

A Superb Start to Our 2026 Programme

Our first outing of 2026 took us back to Elmley National Nature Reserve on the Isle of Sheppey, and despite sub‑zero temperatures—and a surprisingly long queue to enter—the day proved exceptionally rewarding. Over 60 species were recorded, including two owl species and several unexpected highlights.

Morning at Elmley

Car Park Highlights

• The day began strongly with excellent views of Fieldfares and Redwings moving through the trees.

Redwing - courtesy of Ian Hodgson

• Although the traditional Long‑eared Owl roost was empty—likely disturbed by recent works—two Little Owls put on a superb show around the old school building, earning them “Bird of the Morning”.

Courtesy of Andrew Burns

Other early observations included:

• Reed Buntings in modest numbers

Courtesy of Alison Playle

•  A brief but exciting fly‑past from a Merlin

• No sightings of Short‑eared Owl, Barn Owl, or Bearded Tits this year

Towards the River Swale

The river and its margins were alive with waders and wildfowl, including Redshank, Dunlin

Turnstone - courtesy of Andrew Burns

• A Peregrine was spotted across the water, while the concrete block area produced Stonechats, Rock Pipit, and Dunnock.

Rock Pipit - courtesy of Alison Playle

Stonechat- courtesy of Alison Playle

• A standout moment came when a Dartford Warbler briefly appeared along a hedgerow—thankfully photographed to confirm the ID. 
• Goldcrests and Chaffinches added to the morning’s tally.

 Chaffinch - courtesy of Ian Hodgson

Afternoon on the Marshes

• At the Swale viewing screen, the group enjoyed good views of Shelducks, Wigeon, and the occasional Pintail.
• A pair of Grey Plovers showed well along the bay edge before we concluded our Elmley visit and moved on to Capel Fleet.

Capel Fleet Raptor Viewpoint

Although neither Hen Harriers nor Short‑eared Owls appeared for the second year running, the area was far from quiet.

Key Sightings

• Marsh Harriers were abundant and active throughout

• A small flock of Corn Buntings was photographed along the approach road

• A distant Barn Owl was seen by some members

Surprise highlights included:

• A group of Bewick’s Swans, later flying directly over the viewpoint

Bewick Swans 2/3 - courtesy of Andrew Burns

• Two White‑fronted Geese passing overhead

Courtesy of Phil Aylen

• Red‑legged Partridges were present but elusive behind the reeds

A Strong Start to the Year

Despite a noticeable shortage of owls, the day delivered a rich variety of species and several memorable surprises. The Little Owls, Merlin, Dartford Warbler, Bewick’s Swans, and White‑fronted Geese were particular highlights.

Our thanks go to Martin for organising the trip and securing a reduced entry fee, and to our talented photographers, whose excellent images captured the spirit of the day.