Black-winged Stilts, Nightingales, Cettis Warbler and a Tree-climbing Adder at RSPB Pulboroough Brooks

Saturday 18th April 2026

RSPB Pulborough Brooks, Sussex

24 Members

A sunny spring visit to RSPB Pulborough Brooks got off to an immediate flyer when news broke of two Black-winged Stilts on site - prompting a swift and entirely justified detour. A very strong start.

Courtesy of Ian Hodgson

From there, the day unfolded with all the best signs of spring. Common Nightingale were in full voice across the reserve (seeing them, as ever, was another matter), while fresh arrivals like Common Whitethroat, Blackcap and Sedge Warbler brought energy and noise to the hedgerows. Regulars including Red Kite and Avocet added to the show, and a lucky few managed a glimpse of a Garganey - a reminder that timing is everything.

Nightingale - courtesy of Chris Harries

Nightingale in full voice - courtesy of Phil Aylen

Common Whitethroat - courtesy of Ian Hodgson 

Blackcap - courtesy of Patrick Sullivan

There were bonus moments too: butterflies drifting through, cameras working overtime, and even a usually elusive Cetti's Warbler briefly deciding to be seen.

 

Cettis Warbler - courtesy of Phil Aylen

And then, the finale. Just when it seemed the day had delivered everything, an Adder attempted to climb a tree… only to lose its grip and drop unceremoniously into the water below, before making a hasty exit. Not in the field guide, but certainly one to remember.

A good start

Getting harder

Now it's a struggle

Just about hanging on 

Dropped into the pond!

 Safety at last

Snake images courtesy of Martin Jeffree and Alison Playle

Seventy species, plenty of highlights, and one spectacularly clumsy snake - what more could you want?

New species for the 2026 Year List:

137  Black-winged Stilt

138 Swallow

139  Common Whitethroat