Dungeness Trip – 22 March 2026 – East Grinstead RSPB Local Group

Thirteen members enjoyed a bright, calm day at Dungeness, recording nearly 70 species. The highlight was excellent—if hard‑won—views of black‑necked grebes at the ARC Pits, thanks to a timely tip‑off from local birder Martin Casemore (Plodding Birder).

Courtesy of Phil Aylen

Other notable species included firecrest, Cetti’s warbler, bearded tit, and a fast‑moving kingfisher. Unfortunately, they did not present themselves for photographs - a case of "blink and you miss them"

More cooperative birds included:-

All three egret species

Little Egret - courtesy of Patrick Sullivan

Great White Egret - courtesy of Patrick Sullivan

Cattle Egrets - courtesy of Patrick Sullivan

Goldeneye

Courtesy of Patrick Sullivan

Courtesy of Ian Hodgson

Raptors were well represented, with marsh harrier, kestrel, and two peregrines, one of which passed the group at close range.

Peregrine - courtesy of Phil Aylen

Round at the power station, the highlight was this superb male Black Redstart.

Courtesy of Ian Hodgson

Non‑bird highlights featured:-

 Great‑Crested Newt

Courtesy of Ian Hodgson

 Marsh Frog 

Courtesy of Ian Hodgson

Red Fox

Courtesy of Ian Hodgson

Courtesy of Ian Hodgson

Courtesy of Ian Hodgson

Seawatching 

There was not much going on here apart from the odd Gannet and a Red-throated Diver.

Gannet - courtesy of Patrick Sullivan

Red-throated Diver - courtesy of Phil Aylen

A super trip packed out with interesting wildlife!

New species for the 2026 Year List:

126  Black-necked Grebe

127  Black Redstart