Friday 13th February 2026 and Saturday 14th February 2026
Dungeness and Scotney Gravel Pits
My only previous encounter with an American Wigeon was back in 2016 at RSPB Pulborough Brooks in Sussex, and that bird couldn’t have been more cooperative - close in, settled, and showing beautifully. This latest attempt was a very different experience. With the vast, saturated landscape at Scotney and the bird’s restless behaviour, it was hardly surprising that it proved difficult to pin down. Despite a solid effort from several other birders and me on Friday, the wigeon managed to evade us completely. It wasn’t until the following day that I finally connected with it, bringing a satisfying end to what had become a far more challenging search than my first encounter with the species.
Friday – Scotney GP and Dungeness
Although the American Wigeon remained elusive throughout Friday, the day produced several notable records.
A family group of three Whooper Swans was present on the fields behind the Jurys Gap sand pit. The birds were feeding quietly and remained in view throughout, offering good scope views.
At Scotney Sward, a tightly packed flock of at least 250 Golden Plovers - my first of 2026 - was gathered on the grass. The birds were largely stationary in the blustery conditions, forming a dense, shimmering mass.
Later in the afternoon, a visit to the ARC Hanson hide at Dungeness RSPB added further interest. A drake Goldeneye and a female were observed diving regularly on the open water, remaining visible for an extended period.
Despite the main target evading detection, the supporting cast provided worthwhile compensation and ensured the day was far from wasted.
Saturday – Scotney Sward and Dungeness Fishing Boat Area
Conditions improved significantly on Saturday. Around ten other birders were already on site when I arrived at the Scotney Sward area at lunchtime, and it wasn’t long before the American Wigeon was located among the scores of Eurasian Wigeon. After the previous day’s frustrations, the views were steady and conclusive.
Moving on to the Dungeness fishing boat area, seawatching proved productive. Scores of Guillemots were moving west to east, many of them close inshore. A couple of Red‑throated Divers were also present on the water near the shoreline, drifting and diving in calm conditions. In addition, several Gannets passed close to the shore, their purposeful flight lines bringing them well within range. Perhaps the most interesting event of the day was the sight of thousands - yes thousands - of Cormorants flying west to east close to the shoreline. Where were they coming from and where were they going to?
The improved weather conditions certainly brought out the best of the day’s birding and rounded off the visit on a high note.
New species for the 2026 Year List:
106 Whooper Swan
107 Golden Plover
108 Goldeneye
109 American Wigeon
110 Guillemot
111 Red-throated Diver
112 Gannet
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