Rodmell with the SOS

Wednesday 4th March 2026

Rodmell near Lewes, Sussex

Sussex Ornithological Society (SOS)

Summary of the Rodmell Walk

I was part of a large group of SOS members who gathered for the annual late‑afternoon Rodmell walk, all hoping for Barn Owls or Short‑eared Owls. For the fourth time this winter, none appeared for me, suggesting that the recent harsh weather may have pushed them from this usually reliable site. Even so, the walk produced a lively mix of species.

Regular tits and finches were noted early on, followed by a Stock Dove and a low‑flying Merlin that only one observer managed to catch. Activity over Iford added Lapwings and ducks, while Common Buzzards, a distant Marsh Harrier, and later a Red Kite drifted through. Mixed groups of Little and Cattle Egrets, Egyptian Geese, a Peregrine pursued by a Pied Wagtail, and three passing Ravens all contributed to the tally.

Stonechats were vocal, a male Reed Bunting showed briefly, and several flocks of Corn Buntings — including my first of the year — moved around the fields. Thrushes included Blackbird, Song Thrush, a lone Redwing, and distant Mistle Thrushes. Near the river, Black‑headed Gulls, Grey Herons, Cormorants, and a final fly‑over Sparrowhawk rounded off the day.

Despite the missing owls, the group enjoyed good company and a healthy total of 55 species.

New species for the 2026 Year List:

122 Corn Bunting