Ashdown Forest - Goshawk Time!

Ashdown Forest Raptor Watch

Wednesday 4 March & Thursday 5 March 2026

With clear skies and sunshine returning at last, the Ashdown Forest offered perfect conditions for early‑spring raptor watching. Two visits—one solo, one shared—produced an excellent mix of sightings and good company.

Goshawks on Both Days

Across both sessions, at least two Goshawks were seen repeatedly, drifting over the treetops in the distance. Their powerful, purposeful flight was unmistakable and provided the main highlight of the outings.

Sparrowhawks Steal the Show

Two Sparrowhawks put on a superb aerial display, twisting and climbing over the forest edge—an unexpected bonus and a joy to watch.

Four Raptor Species Recorded

Alongside Goshawk and Sparrowhawk, the forest delivered:

• Red Kite – a single bird gliding through the area

• Buzzards – several individuals soaring in the warm air

A fine early‑spring mix and a reminder of how rich the forest can be for birds of prey.

Good Company

Wednesday brought a chance meeting with local birders Joanne and David, while Thursday’s visit was shared with Martin, adding a social dimension to the already enjoyable sessions.

Summary

Two lovely mornings on the Ashdown Forest, with regular Goshawk sightings, a memorable Sparrowhawk display, and a supporting cast of Red Kite and Buzzards. A rewarding start to the spring raptor season.

New species for the 2026 Year List:

120 Sparrowhawk

121 Goshawk

Newhaven Harbour (West), Sussex

Saturday 28th February 2026

Newhaven Harbour (West), Sussex

 Birding Highlights from Newhaven

With the weather finally improving, a quick trip to the south coast proved well worth the effort. Newhaven Harbour delivered two excellent seabird encounters, along with a few bonus sightings.

Shag in the Harbour

Local birder Paul W reported a Shag resting on the harbour rocks, and the bird was still present on arrival—basking in the sunshine and offering relaxed, prolonged views. A great opportunity to catch up with this coastal specialist.

Fulmars on the Cliffs

A short move to the car park beneath the cliffs produced further success. Four Fulmars—two pairs—were settled on their usual ledges, clearly enjoying the calm conditions. Always a pleasure to watch these elegant seabirds up close.

First Feral Pigeons of the Year

At least ten Feral Pigeons were active around the car park, marking the first sighting of the species for the year.

Summary

A brief but rewarding coastal visit, with excellent views of Shag and Fulmar, plus the first Feral Pigeons of 2026. Newhaven once again proved a reliable and enjoyable spot for early‑season seabird watching.

New species for the 2026 Year List:

117 Shag

118 Fulmar

119  Feral Pigeon

Broadwater Warren with the Ashdown Bird Group - Woodlark and Dartford Warbler

 Trip Report

Friday 27th February 2026

RSPB Broadwater Warren, Sussex

Ashdown Bird Group

(8 members present)

Eight members of the Ashdown Bird Group visited RSPB Broadwater Warren for a morning field trip led by Kevin Hyde, whose long-standing knowledge of the reserve proved invaluable. Despite light rain, the group completed the full route and enjoyed a productive outing focused on three target species: Dartford Warbler, Woodlark, and Lesser Spotted Woodpecker.

 Key Sightings

• Dartford Warbler – A single bird was seen early in the walk near the Nightjar viewpoint, offering brief but clear views.

• Woodlark – The highlight of the day. Two birds were watched foraging on the Western Heath, with several more singing overhead.

• Lesser Spotted Woodpecker – Despite thorough searching, none were found this year.

 Other Notable Species

• Woodcock – Flushed unexpectedly by Ian and Mark, providing a rare daytime sighting.

• Redpoll – A female feeding on alder catkins gave unusually close, prolonged views.

• Treecreepers – Two individuals were observed climbing nearby tree trunks.

• Stonechat – Surprisingly absent, likely due to damp conditions.

• Green Elfcup fungus – A vivid green-stained piece of wood photographed by Ian added an interesting non‑avian find.

Species Count

A total of 20 species were recorded, including Buzzard, Goldcrest, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Long‑tailed Tit, Song Thrush (heard), and Pheasant (heard).

 Overall

Although one of the target species eluded the group, the outing delivered excellent views of Dartford Warbler and Woodlark, plus several memorable encounters. Thanks were extended to the organisers, Kevin for his guidance, and Ian for braving the weather with his camera.

New species for the 2026 Year List:

116  Woodlark