Rye Harbour with the ABG

 Rye Harbour NNR – ABG Visit (8 March 2026)

Despite stubborn mist and a chilly, sunless morning, the Ashdown Bird Group enjoyed an excellent outing to Rye Harbour, with 15 members recording an impressive 78 species.

Following the usual anticlockwise circuit from the Martello Tower, the group enjoyed a rich mix of waterbirds, waders, raptors and passerines. The Spotted Redshank on the Salt Pool was the standout early highlight, offering prolonged views and superb photographic opportunities. Other notable waders included returning Ringed Plovers, elegant Avocets, and a surprise Bar‑tailed Godwit expertly picked out among Golden Plovers.

Spotted Redshank - courtesy of Andrew Burns

Ringed Plover - courtesy of Patrick Sullivan

Avocet - courtesy of Andrew Burns

Bar-tailed Godwit with Golden Plover Flock - courtesy of Alison Playle

Waterfowl were well represented, with abundant Wigeon and a superb female Red‑breasted Merganser adding unexpected excitement. The first Sandwich Terns of spring were both seen and heard across the reserve.

Red-breasted Merganser - courtesy of Patrick Sullivan

Sandwich Terns - courtesy of Andrew Burns

Passerines also played their part, with Firecrests stealing the show during the afternoon extension to the Reedbed viewpoint. Skylarks, Wrens, and a quietly perched Kingfisher added further interest.

Firecrest - courtesy of Phil Aylen

Kingfisher - courtesy of Patrick Sullivan

Despite the challenging light, the day was filled with quality sightings, great company, and excellent photographic contributions. A strong start to the spring season for the Ashdown Bird Group.

New species for the 2026 Year List:

1223 Ringed Plover

124  Bar-tailed Godwit

125   Sandwich Tern