Fishbourne Creek a.m. and West Dean Woods p.m.

East Grinstead RSPB Local Group – Trip Report

Fishbourne Creek & West Dean Woods

Sunday 18 January 2026

67 species recorded | 7 members attending

Our group enjoyed one of its most memorable winter outings in recent years, blessed with calm, mild weather and exceptional birding across two contrasting habitats.

Morning at Fishbourne Creek

With high tide keeping mudflats submerged, waders gathered on boats, rafts and jetties, offering superb viewing conditions. The route took the group from Dell Quay north toward Fishbourne before returning for lunch.

Highlights included:

• Widespread Brent Geese throughout the creek

Courtesy of Ian Hodgson

• Repeated sightings of Kingfisher

Courtesy of Phil Ayling

• Several Greenshank showing well

Courtesy of Ian Hodgson

• A striking Goldcrest in a wooded section

Courtesy of Patrick Sullivan

• The reliable Grey Wagtail at the creek’s north‑eastern edge

Courtesy of Ian Hodgson

• A fine group of Grey Plover, voted Bird of the Morning

Courtesy of Patrick Sullivan

Despite missing a few hoped‑for species, the session produced an impressive 53 species.

Afternoon at West Dean Woods

Starting near Staple Ash Farm, the group walked toward Monkton Farm, enjoying a superb run of woodland and farmland species.

Highlights:

• At least six Red Kites overhead soon after arrival

• Multiple Hawfinches, with at least eight individuals seen

Courtesy of Phil Aylen

• A group of Crossbills moving through the treetops

Courtesy of Phil Aylen

• Bramblings associating with chaffinches

Courtesy of Phil Aylen

• Additional highlights: Marsh Tit, Raven, Fieldfare

Marsh Tit - courtesy of Phil Aylen

Raven - courtesy of Phil Aylen

Fieldfare - courtesy of Phil Aylen

• A spectacular starling murmuration to close the day

Courtesy of Ian Hodgson

Crossbills and bramblings were jointly named Birds of the Afternoon due to their scarcity at this site. The afternoon added 29 species, 14 of them new for the day.

Overall

With perfect weather, excellent photographic opportunities and a combined total of 67 species, this outing stands out as one of the group’s finest. Warm thanks go to John for organising the day and to Ian, Patrick and Phil for their superb photographic contributions.