A Surprise Lesser Spotted Woodpecker

 

The Early Birder Catches the Honey-buzzard

Ashdown Forest Raptor Viewing Point – 12 June 2026

Nine members of the Ashdown Bird Group met at the raptor viewing point behind the old Llama Park in Ashdown Forest on a pleasant June morning. Following a spell of unsettled weather, conditions were ideal and hopes were high for our main target species, the Honey-buzzard.

The day's best Honey-buzzard sighting actually took place before the official start time. A female bird emerged from the woodland below the viewpoint and flew along the edge of the field before passing close to the group. Unfortunately, only three members had arrived early enough to see it, while the rest of us had to rely on their descriptions of what was clearly an excellent sighting.

Although the Honey-buzzards failed to show again during the morning, we were more than compensated by an unexpected sighting of a Lesser Spotted Woodpecker. Phil first heard the bird before spotting it flying across the valley and briefly perching in a tall tree nearby. The sighting was enjoyed by several members and proved to be one of the highlights of the session.

There was also a touch of misfortune for some of the photographers. Patrick happened to be back at the car park retrieving a forgotten camera accessory when the woodpecker appeared, while Phil had left his camera behind in his eagerness to follow the bird. Fortunately, Martin was ready with his camera and managed to capture a series of excellent photographs.

By the end of the morning, the group had recorded 30 species, including Honey-buzzard, Lesser Spotted Woodpecker, Buzzard, Garden Warbler, Siskin and Goldcrest. While most members missed the best Honey-buzzard sighting of the day, the combination of good weather, enjoyable company and an unexpected Lesser Spotted Woodpecker ensured a successful and memorable outing.

New species for the 2026 Year List:
168 Lesser Spotted Woodpecker