Field Meeting Reports
Dungeness – Bird Observatory, Reserve & ARC Pits – Saturday 16 May 2026
No. of attendees: 23 No. of species: 66
Highlights: Common Scoter, Razorbill, Kittiwake, Common and Sandwich Tern, Gannet, Peregrine Falcon, Skylark, Sedge Warbler, Lesser and Common Whitethroat, Black Redstart, Northern Wheatear, Common Ringed Plover, Eurasian Bittern, Marsh Harrier, Hobby, Bearded Tit, Garganey
This was a full day’s birding, taking in all the main spots at Dungeness – from the shingle beach to the Moat, Desert and Trapping Area around the Observatory, to the RSPB Reserve and finally the large expanse of water at the ARC Pits.
An early, very chilly start saw the first of the group meet by the Seawatching Hide to take in some classic seawatching at one of the best spots along the South Coast. Wind and tide conditions weren’t that helpful. Still, we did manage a good selection, including plenty of Gannets, gulls, including Herring, Black-headed, Lesser and Great Black-backed, Sandwich Terns, 4 distant Common Scoter and a speeding Razorbill. We were all taken by the number of Harbour Porpoises feeding offshore.
Behind the beach, on the power station perimeter fence, were both adult Meadow Pipits and 2 Black Redstarts, gathering caterpillars for their chicks nearby. The resident Peregrine Falcons were in evidence at the power station and on the adjacent pylons.
Meadow Pipit, Dungeness by Gail Huckle
Shedding some layers back at the car park as it started to warm up, we had a good walk around the Observatory and Trapping Area, having a chance to see the Heligoland Traps. Whilst the Trapping Area was relatively quiet, our detective work unlocked both a Reed Bunting and an excellent Lesser Whitethroat. Other birds of note were Chiffchaff, Sedge Warbler, Stonechat, Cetti’s Warbler and a stunning pair of Northern Wheatear.
A quick stop at the End of the Line café, and we headed to the RSPB Reserve. Burrowes Pit’s water level was high, so the island was not that exposed but still had views of nesting Herring and Lesser Black-backed Gulls, with few waders other than an Oystercatcher and Common Ringed Plover. A few Common Terns were heard and seen.
With the weather getting colder and windier, we kept on the move whilst listening out for the various passerines – Sedge and Reed Warbler were singing as were Cettis’ Warbler, Reed Bunting and another Lesser Whitethroat.
We knew that there might be Hobbies about, but we really didn’t expect to see these acrobatic raptors in such numbers – we had fantastic views all around the Reserve. At Dengemarsh, they were seen in large numbers, with probably 20-30 birds hunting for damselflies.
Hobby catching a Dragonfly at RSPB Dungeness by Cheech
With little prospect of either Bearded Tits or Bittern, we still all stood expectant at the Viewpoint in a stiffening breeze. Miraculously, we didn’t need to wait long for the Bearded Tits to be seen flying over the reedbeds and across the water. Almost simultaneously, a Bittern flew up above the reedbed, steadied itself in the wind and then settled down again – amazing. As we all walked away, we heard it booming!
The final stop was the ARC Pits and the large hide. Still needed a bit less water, but some islands were showing – Redshank, Common Ringed Plover and, best of all, a very active male Garganey. We all had great views of this summer visitor – a great finale to a great day!
Andy Harding
Newlands Corner – Friday 08 May 2026
No. of attendees: 27 No. of species: 39
Highlights: Swift, Red Kite, Raven, Skylark, Blackcap, Whitethroat, Goldcrest, Firecrest, Nuthatch
Firstly, our thanks to Clare Harrington for leading us round her regular birding patch – a beautiful walk in stunning scenery and good to visit a Surrey location. Appropriately, the walk coincided with Sir David Attenborough’s 100th birthday, and so we were all able to mark this milestone before we started.
This circular walk took in a combination of classic Surrey downland, farmland, scrub, and woodland, including a visit to the famous Yews. Lots of bird song in the scrub as we made our way down to the lowest level of the walk with Blackcap, Whitethroat, Chiffchaff, Song Thrush, Dunnock and Blackbird all singing. Through farmland with a beautiful array of wildflowers, with Skylarks overhead and Red Kites wheeling above us. Barn Swallows were seen swooping near some of the farm buildings.
Surrey Downland with red clover by Graham Sharples
Reaching St Martha’s Church, we all had a chance to recover from the steeper section of the walk whilst taking in the magnificent scenery looking south. As we dropped down into the wooded section, we all listened out for our target bird – the Firecrest (Clare had briefed us that there was a healthy population of them at Newlands Corner). We were not disappointed to see and hear many of these little gems, and we were able to distinguish between the Firecrest and Goldcrest. A far more abrasive call above and from some trees, and we all had excellent views of a juvenile Raven with its parent calling in close quarters.
Back via the Yew Tree Project, which are extraordinary trees, and then to the car park. An excellent and very enjoyable walk.
Andy Harding
Russia Dock Woodland & Ecological Park – Saturday 25 April 2026
6 of us met at Canada Water station. This area of Rotherhithe was the old Surrey Docks which were built over in the 1980s. Some old docks remain with others partially filled in but with some beautiful wetland areas created. A central portion contains the Russia Dock woodland. At the lake by Canada Water, we saw Pochard and Tufted Duck, Grey Wagtail, and an immature Grey Heron, but the highlight was a pair of Mute Swan who have built their nest below the elevated walkway. The female was off the nest revealing 7 eggs but then returned, totally oblivious to the many admirers above. We then moved on to the large expanse of water at Greenland Dock where we saw Cormorant, both Herring and Lesser Black Backed Gull and Great Crested Grebe. An area to the north with houses built into the wetland contained more diving ducks and, within the very small reedbed was a singing Reed Warbler and another Swan nest.
A short walk then took us into the Russia Dock woodlands where we saw or heard Blackcap, Chiffchaff, Goldcrest, Stock Dove and Long-tailed Tit, then onto Stave Hill, an elevated watchpoint overlooking the city. Here I had arranged to meet Steve and John, from the Friends of Russia Dock woodland, who told us about the surprising sightings they have seen from Stave Hill including Short Eared Owl, Hawfinch and Hobby. They also told us about all the conservation work carried out by the volunteers. While talking to us, John heard a Collared Dove which is a scare resident in the area. The trip was rounded off by a coffee in the beautiful café overlooking the river at Russia Dock Farm.
A really nice day in the extreme north-east of Surrey, at a place none of us had visited before and we all remarked on how surprisingly quiet, green and pleasant it all was.
A total of 36 species seen.
Dave Kiddell
RSPB Pulborough Brooks – Tuesday 21 April 2026
No. of attendees: 21 No. of species: 78
Highlights: Shelduck, Cuckoo, Swift, Common Crane, Black-winged Stilt, Pied Avocet, Common and Little Ringed Plover, Snipe, Redshank, Greenshank, White Stork, Great White Egret, Peregrine Falcon, Raven, Sedge Warbler, House and Sand Martin, Garden Warbler, Lesser Whitethroat, Nightingale,
A very popular trip for the Surrey Bird Club, with the chance of getting close to singing Nightingales in particular. Having heard them from the car park, we knew we would be hearing and seeing them on the walk.
The plan was for all to walk down the Zig-Zag path past Fattengates, then split into two groups (so as not to crowd out the hides), and meet for coffee at Adder Alley.
The Zig-Zag was full of bird song with the ubiquitous Nightingale constantly singing as we walked down the path. Plenty of opportunities to get a glimpse and even longer views of this iconic songster.
Nightingale, RSPB Pulborough Brook by Gail Huckle
So many other birds to identify from their song – Dunnock, Common Whitethroat, a Lesser Whitethroat, Blackcap, Garden Warbler, Cetti’s Warbler and Song Thrush, but many more. Some heard but unfortunately did not see a Cuckoo.
Whitethroat, Pulborough by Gail Huckle
A White Stork (surely from Knepp) circled overhead.
Splitting at the Pipe Pond, we all encountered many birds and species on both the North and South Brooks, taking in West Mead and Winpenny Hides (South Brooks) and Netleys Hide and the Hangar Viewpoint (North Brooks). Ducks included Shelduck, Shoveler, Gadwall, some late Wigeon, Teal; with waders including breeding Pied Avocet and Redshank, Greenshank, Common and Little Ringed Plover, with one lucky group finding a Common Snipe.
Meeting to exchange tales at Adder Alley, amazingly, we witnessed the arrival of a pair of Common Cranes. They had been seen a couple of days earlier, but we never imagined we would see them. Landing on South Brooks, we all got very good, scoped views. Wow!
Back on the circular walk, we all managed to get back to the Visitor Centre almost simultaneously, as we got word that a pair of Black-winged Stilts had arrived in front of West Mead Hide. Whilst distant again, we were all able to see them through scopes – what an end to a fabulous morning’s birding!
Pulborough always delivers and will be on our list for 2027.
Andy Harding
Beddington Farmlands – Thursday 02 April 2026
No. of attendees: 25 No. of species: 50
Highlights: Garganey, Pochard, Little Ringed Plover, Green Sandpiper, Red Kite, Sand Martin, Cetti’s Warbler, Blackcap, Northern Wheatear
Firstly, our thanks to Charlie Owens, the warden, for taking the group around the Reserve and sharing his time and knowledge about the ongoing restoration process.
Whilst waiting for everyone to assemble, Sand Martins were noted swooping over North Lake whilst investigating the Sand Martin nesting bank. Cetti’s Warbler, Greenfinch, Goldfinch, and Chiffchaff were all singing from the scrub.
The anticlockwise tour followed the inner path of South Lake, where we all got great views of the heronry and Grey Heron chicks on one of the 11 nests in the southern reedbed.
Onto what is known as Phase 3, where, with better water-level control, an improving environment for waders is being created. The habitat has certainly helped with the encouragement of waders with displaying Little Ringed Plovers, Green Sandpiper and Lapwing evident. Whilst we were all scanning from the Phase 3 hide, Peter shouted out “Garganey”, and sure enough, he had found a pair quietly feeding in amongst the reeds to the far bank – these were the first seen of the spring and a very important find.
Little Ringed Plover, Beddington Farmland by Steve Casson
Up over the Mound, more spring migrants were found in the form of a trio of Northern Wheatears, which showed very well on various perches. Skylarks sang high above us and are a regular breeding bird.
From this higher vantage point, with views north over London, raptor movement is monitored when conditions are right. Not quite the numbers often seen, but we did pick out a Red Kite, Buzzard and Kestrel.
Walking towards the Incinerator and along the MEC Channel, a few passerines were seen, with little else to note at the Phase 1 Wet Grasslands.
Back towards the Mile Road Gate, but not before we took some time looking over the North Lake. Plenty of activity here with still good numbers of Pochard, Shoveler, Gadwall, Coot, Teal, Tufted Duck, with various gulls, the most notable being 4 Lesser Black-backed Gulls.
An excellent morning at this inner London location.
Andy Harding
Oare Marshes Local Nature Reserve – Friday 21 March 2026
No. of attendees: 21 No. of species: 63
Highlights: Pied Avocet, Grey Plover, Bar-tailed and Black-tailed Godwit, Mediterranean Gull, Eurasian Spoonbill, Great White Egret, Marsh Harrier, Bearded Tit
This is a brilliant reserve, and with easy walking and a circular path with variable habitat, it is difficult not to see a good selection of birds.
Meeting by the car park adjacent to the River Swale, it is always a good opportunity to scan the exposed mud flats for waders, ducks and gulls – Black-tailed Godwit, Redshank, Oystercatcher, Pied Avocet, Shelduck made up the main birds, but one very keen-eyed birder picked out a Bar-tailed Godwit with its lighter-toned plumage and smaller build – a great spot!
Back towards the East Flood and plenty of birds along the way – Great White Egret, Marsh Harrier, Reed Bunting, Cetti’s Warbler. At the viewing point, good numbers of Black-tailed Godwit, Shoveler, Teal, Gadwall, Wigeon and a pair of Pintail. The characteristic call of a Mediterranean Gull above and four came down and showed well in front of us, showing their black hood and red beak and legs – brilliant bird.
Gradually making our way round the circular path, keeping one eye on the flood and one on the adjacent farmland, we were very privileged to see three Eurasian Spoonbills fly in and feed in the main flood area. Everyone got excellent views of a bird which is becoming increasingly regular on our trips.
Spoonbill, Oare Marsh by Steve Casson
One of the key birds of the trip is the Bearded Tit, so we all “staked out” the reedbed adjacent to the Swale in the hope of first hearing their characteristic “pinging” and seeing them fly fast over the reedbeds. We didn’t have to wait long to start to see them, and whilst a difficult bird to latch onto, everyone managed some reasonably good views.
Reaching our starting point, we decided to go up the path to the balancing pond, whilst picking out Great Crested Grebe, Curlew, Dunlin and Turnstones.
In addition, some decided to “go for” the Red-flanked Bluetail that had been residing in a woodland at Crockham Hill Common, just on the Kent side, despite a valiant effort by our remaining group; just a couple managed to get a fleeting glimpse of this rare visitor.
Andy Harding
Dukes Warren, Leith Hill – Friday 13 March 2026
No. of attendees: No. of species: 24
Highlights: Raven, Woodlark, Redpoll, Crossbill, Siskin, Red Kite
Always an exciting start to this walk, with the usual flyovers and calling of passerines whilst waiting for everyone to assemble. This year, we had singing Woodlarks, first seen on the cricket pitch, then singing as they flew overhead.
As the guide, there is always an anxious start to the walk as you never know what you may see and indeed whether there will be much about. However, the walk is breathtaking, so everyone is usually rewarded with some great views, if not birds!
Fortunately, this circular walk produced some excellent classic birds for this, the highest point in Surrey.
Dukes Warren does test the song and call identification of birds. The first was a calling Crossbill, which was then found at the top of a pine tree affording excellent scope views for everyone. Redpoll and Siskin were soon to follow, albeit everyone heard but not all saw the small flocks. Other songsters included Linnet, Chaffinch, Song Thrush, Wren, Goldcrest and Blackbird.
Redwings were moving through in small numbers, and further away over the treetops, we had Buzzard, Red Kite and Raven.
A beautiful walk with a good selection of Surrey heath and woodland birds.
Andy Harding
Abberton Reservoir – Friday 20 February 2026
No. of attendees: 14 No. of species: 67
Highlights: Smew, Black-necked Grebe, Goosander, Great White Egret, Kingfisher, Peregrine, Marsh Harrier, White-fronted Goose, Barn Owl
A long journey into Essex rewarded this hardy group with a great day’s birding. Arriving at the Layer Breton Causeway, one of the first birds we picked out was a male Smew. The female “red head” was also nearby diving close to the opposing reedbed. What a start and what a bird!
Always a great start to visit this area of the Reserve first, as it usually serves up some good waterfowl with 15 White-fronted Geese grazing by the water’s edge and Shoveler, Gadwall, Mallard, Teal, Pochard, Tufted Duck and 8 Goldeneye all in good numbers.
A supporting cast of Red Kite, Marsh Harrier, Buzzard and a Kingfisher on a post boosted our species numbers, with one lucky birder having a glimpse of an Otter.
Off to the main Reserve and after parking at the Visitor Centre, we walked back to take in the main Causeway. Loads of the ducks we had previously seen, but supplemented by both Great Crested and Black-necked Grebe, Goosander, Wigeon, lots more Goldeneye, together with Great White Egret, Redshank, Turnstone and Ruff feeding around the edges, with a flock of c.50 Golden Plover flying over and landing in a nearby field.
As we made our way round the Reserve, there was significant Fieldfare movement overhead, with many cackling in the bushes. More of the same from the various hides, but the highlight of the day came in the form of a midday hunting Barn Owl, oblivious to our presence. We all had outstanding views over a 10-minute period.
Barn Owl, Abberton Resevoir by Steve Casson
After a late lunch, we headed to the Billets Farm Hide, where we added a flock of about 20 Dunlin, a good number of Common Gull and about 10 exquisite Pintail.
With the weather becoming decidedly damp, we decided to avoid Copt Hall Marshes and headed home, having had a brilliant day birding in Essex. We will be back!
Andy Harding
Elmley NNR & Raptor Viewpoint, Capel Fleet – Sunday 8 February 2026
No. of attendees: 33 No. of species: 72
Highlights: Water Pipit, Little Owl, Short-eared Owl, Barn Owl, White-fronted Goose, Corn & Reed Bunting, Marsh Harrier, Bearded Tit
A superb attendance for one of the highlights of our calendar – a winter visit to the Isle of Sheppey.
The drive to the visitor car park is always full of anticipation, with the sheer number of birds both on the ground and filling the skies. Everywhere you look are skeins of geese, flocks of ducks, raptors quartering the marshes, with large groups of swirling waders. The predominant birds are Greylag Goose, Shelduck, Shoveler, Wigeon, Mallard, and Teal, with Marsh Harriers as the main bird of prey, and waders including Redshank, Curlew, Lapwing, and Oystercatcher. One group had a Water Pipit from one of the ditches.
Arriving in the car park, there was a degree of disappointment that the usual plethora of owls was not in evidence. However, we were rewarded with a Short-eared Owl on the path to the schoolhouse ruins, where a lucky few also got the resident Little Owl.
Onward to the hides for lunch, with a stop at the viewing screen over The Swale. We identified a large flock of Red Knot amongst the feeding Oystercatchers, Dunlin, Curlew and Redshank.
Plenty of ducks and geese at the hides and after an enjoyable communal lunch, we headed back along the track listening out for the various songs and calls from the reedbeds – Cetti’s Warbler, Reed Bunting, Stonechat and thankfully, after much waiting, two Bearded Tits gave their characteristic “pinging” before flying low over the reeds.
Back to the cars, having also picked up a Raven, Fieldfare and a Sparrowhawk, where, on our departure, everyone was rewarded by a fly-by Barn Owl – what a tremendous sight.
Kestrel, Elmley Nature Reserve by Gail Huckle
Onto The Raptor Viewpoint to see out the remaining light as birds came into roost. The regular flock of Corn Buntings were in situ with a flyover pair of White-fronted Geese, with at least 10 Marsh Harriers coming into roost in the adjacent reedbed. Kestrel and Buzzard were the only other raptors, but plenty of calling from the reedbed gave away Cetti’s Warbler, Water Rail and Little Grebe. Amazingly, within a 70-minute period, without leaving the viewpoint, we recorded 36 species.
As always, Sheppey delivered with a superb day’s birding.
Andy Harding
Titchfield Marsh Nature Reserve – Friday 23 January 2026
No. of attendees: 24 No. of species: 70
Highlights: Glossy Ibis, Marsh Harrier(s), Sanderling, Goosander, Firecrest, Chiffchaff and Common Snipe
A new venue for Surrey Bird Club. This well-managed Reserve has plenty of diverse habitats with scrapes, lakes, reedbeds, farmland and with the Southampton Water directly opposite providing the chance for some sea watching – if it isn’t blowing a hurricane! Sadly the planned sea watch wasn’t possible. No matter, some of the Group met early to try and find the resident group of Glossy Ibis, which are reliably on the Reserve. Two of our group found a flock of 5 (and so we planned if possible to revisit at the end of the day).
Splitting into two groups, we all made our way along the east side of the Reserve aiming for the two hides. A few passerines were about including Blue, Great and Long-tailed Tits, Goldfinches, and both “crests” – Goldcrest and Firecrest!
Up to 5 Marsh Harriers performed in front of the hides with a supporting cast of Kestrel, Buzzard, a Peregrine Falcon and a cheeky male Sparrowhawk which flew through the bird feeders. With the number of raptors about, the Lapwing flocks were active along with Black-tailed Godwits, Wigeon and Teal – birds continuing to wheel around the skies.
A good lunch and a chance to admire the winter-plumaged Sanderling flock at the entrance to the harbour.
Round to the west side and, with the tide in, the waders had taken shelter in the lagoons. Redshank, Oystercatcher, Lapwing together with a couple of Common Snipe feeding in the margins were the best we could find. Probably the best bird of the day was the male Goosander associating with the Shelducks – we got some excellent views. Cettis’s Warbler and Water Rail were heard but not seen.
Some of us went back to find the Glossy Ibis – some found the injured bird in the horse paddock and others were fortunate to find the larger flock of 5.
A really great day with the rain holding off until we headed home.
Andy Harding
Prews Farm and Papercourt Marshes – Sunday 11 January 2026
No. of attendees: 28 No. of species: 48
Highlights: Common Pochard, Common Snipe, Sparrowhawk, Red Kite, Little Owl, Kingfisher, Redwing, Fieldfare, Redpoll
First Field Meeting of the year and no more appropriate than a 2.5 mile walk within the heart of Surrey taking in farmland, hedge and scrub, a gravel pit, waterways and flood meadows.
Walking around the fields of Prews Farm we saw a large flock of Linnet, a Stonechat, Red Kite, Sparrowhawk and a lot of corvids. Fieldfares, Redwings, Goldfinches were overhead and in the hedges, as we made our way to the gravel pit used by Papercourt Sailing Club. A pair of superb Red Kites were overhead as we walked along the lakeside path. There were few birds at the sailing club end but opposite the distillery there were plenty of ducks – Pochard, Tufted Duck and Mallard, with a good number of Great Crested Grebes, including a pair starting to consider their courtship.
A Grey Heron was at the far bank where, whilst we watched, we found a Kingfisher quietly sitting in a tree overhanging the water. Although it was distant, with scopes, everyone got good views.
Heading into the farmland, our focus was to try and find the resident Little Owl. A difficult find but Steve Paveley managed to spy it in a willow tree and most of the group watched it fly very low over the field. Superb!
Greater Spotted Woodpecker ( Matthew Crees)
With the ground under foot being very wet we decided to walk along the Wey Navigation Canal rather than the River Wey, itself. Some small finches high up transpired to be Redpolls which was a great finish to a very enjoyable morning.
Andy Harding
WWT London Wetlands Centre – Sunday 14 December 2025
No. of attendees: 33 No. of species: 55
Highlights: Egyptian Goose, Goldeneye, Common Snipe, Eurasian Bittern, Red Kite, Chiffchaff, Cetti’s Warbler, Redwing, Eurasian Siskin, Reed Bunting
Our annual visit to the “Barnes Wetlands” never disappoints. With the extensive hides, plenty of WCs and a decent café, coupled with a good selection of birds and the chance of a few rarities, what is there not to like?
We had a large number of members on this trip so we split into three groups and headed off in differing directions but did share sightings and it seems that everyone got to see most birds.
This account is from my group. From The Discovery Hide, we soon latched onto the male Goldeneye which showed well throughout the morning.
There were plenty of passerines in the trees with a flock of Siskins seen on the way to the Wildside Hide. At the Reservoir Lagoon, we had a good selection of waterfowl with Teal, Pochard, Tufted Duck, Gadwall and a Greylag Goose. Scanning the reedbeds, our hope was to find one of the two Eurasian Bitterns that had been reported, but almost simultaneously, via our Group Whatsapp – message: “Bittern showing well from WWT Hide”. Great views of this iconic bird were had by most both from both WWT and Peacock Hides during the morning.
At the feeders there was lots of activity with Chaffinch, Greenfinch, Dunnock and Long-tailed, Blue, Great and Coal Tits seen (with a strong supporting cast of Brown Rats on the cage floor). Working our way around the Sheltered Lagoon we added Redwing, Song and Mistle Thrush, Great Crested Grebe, Mute Swan, Green and Great Spotted Woodpecker.
From the Peacock Hide, we managed to find the elusive Common Snipe along with Pied Wagtail, Little Grebe, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Lapwing and Grey Heron.
A great morning culminating in a warm drink and lunch.
Andy Harding
Richmond Park –Tuesday 25 November 2025
No. of attendees: 15 No. of species: 36
Highlights: Peregrine Falcon, Kestrel, Grey Wagtail, Stonechat, Goldcrest
With the slight curve ball of the Pen Ponds café having no power, some of us grabbed breakfast at the café at Roehampton Gate before meeting everyone back at the Pen Ponds.
A great morning in one of London’s most famous parks ably guided by Nigel and his friends Roy and Paula – thanks to them. The route centred around the Pen Ponds giving us a great insight into the improvement works that have been undertaken to the Ponds.
Heading across Lawn Field and alongside Duchess Woods, we all stopped to marvel at the fabulous iconic Red Deer, the males resplendent with their antlers still intact but soon to be shed.
Finding a few Stonechat, we were hopeful of finding a Dartford Warbler or two but no joy. Still had Meadow Pipit, Green Woodpecker and plenty of Ring-necked Parakeets as we walked towards the Lower Pen Pond. Little on this pond, save for Mallard, Tufted Duck, and a pair of very friendly Egyptian Geese, but once we reached the larger “pond” we had an excellent selection of birds including Black-headed Gull, Canada Goose, Mute Swan, Coot, Great Crested Grebe and Cormorant. Making our way around the perimeter, Roy picked out a fabulous-looking Grey Wagtail and then further along the same route, a Peregrine Falcon – on sentry duty in a tree. Apparently this is one of its usual perches – great views in the scope.
A great spot of a Kestrel in the trees on our walk into Isabella Plantation – in the hope of some woodland birds. Wasn’t as bird-busy as we had hoped but still had Great Spotted Woodpecker, Goldcrest and 4 species of tits.
An enjoyable walk with experienced guides, good company and some interesting birds giving great views.
Andy Harding
RSPB Pagham Harbour Nature Reserve –Sunday 16 November 2025
No. of attendees: 20 No. of species: 78
Highlights: Morning – Pied Avocet, Sparrowhawk, Marsh Harrier, Gannet, Common Scoter, Red Knot, Kingfisher
Afternoon – Spotted Redshank, Cattle Egret, Black-tailed Godwit, Rock Pipit, Stonechat, Woodcock
Always a Reserve full of birds, especially in the winter, this trip probably broke our record of most species in a day with some truly great sightings.
We started spotting birds in the car park with the usual finches and tits around the feeders, and a Sparrowhawk and Redwing on our way to the Ferry Pool hide. In truth the Ferry Pool wasn’t full of birds as usual (it had just had some extensive improvement works completed) but Shelduck, Teal, Shoveler in numbers with a few Black-tailed Godwits and Pied Avocets; the best bird being a Green Sandpiper close-in.
Up the west side of the Reserve with Curlews, Redshanks and Oystercatchers moving through the channels and Skylarks and Meadow Pipits in the fields. A Kingfisher flashed along the field-side stream with Cetti’s Warbler calling from the gorse.
Large flocks of Dark-bellied Brent Geese, Lapwings, Woodpigeons and about 400 Golden Plovers filled the huge skies as we got close to Church Norton. Little to be seen in the graveyard, but some great birds on the shingle across the harbour – Grey Plover, Redshank, Ruddy Turnstone, Red Knot, Dunlin with a supporting cast of Mediterranean, Great Black-backed and Common Gull on the islands.
Getting to the sea, we didn’t spend too long sea-watching but we did see a flock of about 10 Common Scoter, a few Great Crested Grebes and some distant Gannets.
Same route back with a very confiding male Sparrowhawk near the Reserve Centre and Marsh Harriers and Common Buzzards constantly in the skies.
A quick lunch and then a good number of us headed to the North Wall.
Whilst many of the same species were seen, we were heartened to find the now breeding colony of Cattle Egrets,some really close-in views of Marsh Harriers and a great sight of a pair of Spotted Redshanks feeding in one of the channels – everyone getting good views. As we walked back, we had 3 Common Snipe showing well and some saw a flushed Woodcock.
A brilliant day with everyone going home satisfied with experiencing some tremendous sights and sounds of Pagham Harbour.
Andy Harding
RSPB Cliffe Pools – Sunday 26 October 2025
No. of attendees: 25 No. of species: 58
Highlights: Pied Avocet, Curlew, Black-tailed Godwit, Greenshank, Dunlin, Sparrowhawk, Marsh Harrier, Skylark, Chiffchaff, Cetti’s Warbler, Redwing,
Despite a challenging day of chilly winds and distant birds, it still made for an excellent walk with great company, particularly in the knowledge that Peter had organized an excellent pub lunch at the nearby Bell Inn at the end of the walk.
Starting from the car park we made our way to various lookouts over Radar Pool. Thankfully there were sufficient scopes to help pick out some of the birds sheltering from the wind! Pied Avocet, Redshank, Lapwing, a well-found sleeping Black-tailed Godwit and a group of Greenshank made up the wader contingent with Little Grebe, Mute Swan, Shelduck (of which there were many), Shoveler, Wigeon and Teal making up the principal wildfowl.
Turning back to walk through the myriad of paths we passed the south side of Radar Pool with Crystal Pool to our south. Chiffchaff, Goldcrest and some usual passerines were seen and heard as we headed for the River Thames. With the biting wind we decided not to head to the main river, but we found plenty of birds in large numbers – Linnet, Meadow Pipit, Starling and Skylark (of which there many). At least 5 Marsh Harriers were seen throughout the morning along with Kestrels and Buzzards.
Photo: Common Buzzard ( Steve Casson)
Heading back towards the car park some decided to have one last look at the Radar Pool. Hovering Buzzards, Kestrels and a passing Sparrowhawk were seen as we left the car park and on arrival at the lookout we had a pair of Curlew, another Greenshank, a larger flock of Lapwing with both Redshank and a solitary Dunlin. A pair of Egyptian Geese also flew in.
Photo: Lapwings ( Steve Casson)
Off to The Bell Inn for an excellent lunch rounding off an excellent birding morning on the North Kent coast.
Andy Harding
Beddington Farmlands – Thursday 16 October 2025
No. of attendees: 20 No. of species: 60
Highlights: Common Snipe, Green Sandpiper, Sparrowhawk, Kingfisher, Hobby, Peregrine, Barn Swallow, Cetti’s Warbler, Redwing, Fieldfare
As always a huge thanks to Charlie Owens, the Reserve’s warden, for giving up his time to guide the group around this iconic inner London reserve. Also, thanks to the Beddington Farmlands Bird Group, who were also on site helping our group onto site and for picking out some of the birds!
Entering via South Gate, we stopped off at the first hide to pick out Little Grebe, Grey Heron, Tufted Duck, Shoveler and Gadwall, with some mobile flocks of Long-tailed Tits accompanied by both Blue and Great Tits in the scrub. Cetti’s Warbler and Chiffchaffs were calling along the path.
Along the top to overlook Phase 3, plenty of Teal were feeding in the shallows and after further scanning a pair of both Common Snipe and Green Sandpiper appeared, the latter a real speciality on the Reserve. Further time spent both in the Phase 3 hide and overlooking the Enclosed Lagoon yielded more Little Grebes and large number of Coots.
Over The Mound, the Starling flocks were evidently growing in numbers as they wheeled around in front of us. The baubling flight call of Skylarks was heard amongst the large number of corvids, mainly Carrion Crow but intermingled with Jackdaws. Winter thrushes were starting to show with both Redwing and Fieldfare seen along with both Song Thrush and Blackbird.
From The Mound, the Vis-Mig Hide allows views over the North Lake and further north, giving a great opportunity both to scan for signs of both migration but also to identify any raptors – in this case a late Hobby and the resident Peregrine, with Kestrels being seen regularly. A high-pitched “peep-peep” and a Kingfisher came into view – always a special bird!
Heading over The Mound towards the Incinerator gave us the chance to walk the MEC channel, home to breeding Grey Wagtails and Stonechats – both showing well. Back on the path to the North Lake Hide for better views of the Kingfisher, with Little Egret, Cormorant, Great Crested Grebe, 4 species of gull and a Pochard. Out via the South Gate with a group of us finishing with a drink at The Duke’s Head (thanks for organising Peter). An enjoyable morning with a vast array of birds seen, all within the shadows of Croydon!
Andy Harding
Farlington Marshes – Sunday 14 September 2025
No. of attendees: 14 No. of species: 69
Highlights: Barnacle Goose, Pintail, Water Rail, Common, Wood & Curlew Sandpiper, Little Stint, Cattle Egret, Marsh Harrier, Peregrine, Whinchat, Northern Wheatear. Yellow Wagtail
One of the Club’s “go-to” venues, which offers the chance to see a very good array of birds in an easy-walking and unhurried environment. Tides do play a big part in what you are going to see and how close, but despite the mudflats being fully exposed at low tide, many waders and wildfowl thankfully were remaining on the inside of the Reserve. Visiting at the peak time of autumn migration gave us the chance to see some elusive birds which can be seen at Farlington Marsh – if we were lucky (and we were!).
Taking a slightly different route, we headed for The Stream, with the extensive reedbeds behind to seek out sheltering waders. Good numbers of hirundine in the shape of both Barn Swallow and House Martin were swooping over the reedbeds, feeding up before their travels south. Making our way along the path adjacent to the water, we soon found Oystercatcher, Lapwing and Common Redshank. In amongst them was an avidly feeding, bobbing small wader – a Common Sandpiper. Even more exciting was a pair of Curlew Sandpipers – longer-necked and slightly larger than a Dunlin with a characteristic down-curved black bill and a hint of an eye stripe.
Photo: Curlew Sandpiper (Steve Casson)
Photo: Common Sandpiper (Jack Taylor)
Someone shouted “large raptor”! and in the mid-distance we got a fleeting glimpse of a Marsh Harrier, with our attention immediately turning to a pair of Peregrines sitting on a post and on the ground, with a Buzzard close by.
Further along the Stream amongst the low-cut reeds there were a few feeding waders, which were difficult to make out to begin with. They were feeding Redshanks, but a slightly smaller, brown/white mottled plumaged, elegant bird was also feeding. Once we got our scope on it, we could make out that it was a Wood Sandpiper – a bird recorded along the coast over the last few days; so very pleasing to find one for ourselves. For some, the sight of the elusive Water Rail was as exciting, and rightly so seeing it within a few metres of the Sandpiper.
Up onto the breakwater path and a chance to look over The Lake. Good numbers of ducks with Teal, Wigeon, Gadwall, Mallard and 4 Pintail were seen, but the star of the show was a pair of diminutive Little Stints. Absolutely cracking birds and always difficult to find. As we headed round to The Point, we continually checked the posts for chats and the ground around the cattle’s feet for wagtails, finding pairs of both Whinchats and Wheatears. with Yellow and Pied Wagtails feeding in the fields.
Scanning the mudflats birds were spread over a wide area but we could make out many Curlew, Grey Plover, Shelduck, and a variety of gulls. As we completed the circuit, we reminded ourselves that it is always sensible to scan the fields to check for anything that may have been missed earlier – in this case 10 Western Cattle Egrets and a sole Barnacle Goose in with the Canada Geese.
Photo: Cattle Egret (Jack Taylor)
A fantastic morning with a great group of birders, all of whom contributed to the final count of 69 species!
Andy Harding
Guildford and River Wey- Sunday 31st August 2025
On another beautifully sunny day 11 people met for the second field trip for people new to birdwatching.
Dave Kiddell started things off by spending a few minutes talking about the pros and cons of different types of binoculars as well as discussing the idea of spending time looking at birds using only your eyes rather than always reverting to using binoculars. This allows you to see how birds initially appear to you, how they fly and associate with other birds around them which can help you spot the difference between similar looking species – such as separating a Jackdaw from Carrion Crow. Once you have obtained this skill, it can let you see something that may be different such as Rook or Raven.
This is Steve Casson’s local patch so he kindly set off to show us around. We walked beside the River Wey where c40 Swallows were feeding across the far bank. A few people were lucky enough to briefly hear and see a Kingfisher. On reaching the dump, many Gulls could be seen sitting on the roof and flying around. We spent some time trying to identify the various plumages of Herring Gulls in their first, second and third years as well as full adults. Some Black Headed and Lesser Black Backed were also seen. Both Great Cormorant and Red Kite were seen flying over.
At the lake were 2 Greylag, some Canada Geese and a very strange cross-Canada like bird. We had good views of a pair of Stonechats in the surrounding field which allowed useful comparisons to be made between them.
Another very enjoyable trip with 23 species seen.
Hersham Ringing Gp, Queen Mary Res. – Saturday 23 August 2025
No. of attendees: 20 No. of species: 46
Highlights:
- Ringing Demo: Sedge, Reed & Cetti’s Warblers, Lesser & Common Whitethroat, Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff, Common Redstart, Whinchat
- On Reservoir: Egyptian Goose, Common Sandpiper, Sparrowhawk, Red Kite, Hobby,
What a brilliant morning! Huge thanks must go to Tony Beasley and his superb team of ringers who were so knowledgeable and helpful, as we got to grips with moults, ageing and identification characteristics of a host of birds that they caught during the morning. Discussions around the changing migration patterns, population fluctuations and survival rates were enthralling and certainly captured the interest of our group.
On meeting Tony at the gate, he hinted that they had already had a steady flow of birds and there were one or two unexpected captures. He didn’t disappoint! Seeing close-up the more familiar species such as Blue, Great and Long-tailed Tit, Blackbird, Dunnock and Robin was a real privilege and helped us all appreciate them all much more with their intricate plumage detail and delicate features.
To also have identified the key characteristics of Chiffchaff versus Willow Warbler and Common Whitethroat versus Lesser Whitethroat will undoubtedly help us all when in the field, when we cannot rely on calls and song. Of special note was the experience of seeing elusive birds like Cetti’s Warbler, Common Redstart and Whinchat up close. Difficult birds to find and identify at the best of times, but to observe them at this range was amazing.
As is always the routine when we go to the ringing demonstration, we get to walk the steps to the look-out at the Reservoir. This was a 15-minute scan before we left, and we weren’t disappointed with superb views of a pair of Hobbies hunting close by. Other raptors seen during our morning were Sparrowhawk, Red Kite, Kestrel and Buzzard. The morning was completed with a pair of Common Sandpipers showing well directly in front of us.
Photo: Long-tailed Tit ( Gail Huckle)
A unique morning of ornithology in several differing guises!
Andy Harding
Ashtead Common – Sunday 18 May 2025
This was the first field trip for people new to birdwatching. On a beautifully sunny day 6 people, both members and non-members met by Ashtead Station. Among the group there was a level of expertise from absolute beginner to those wanting to improve their basic skills, so we spent the first few minutes talking through the basic skills of birdwatching as well as covering the pros and cons of different types of binoculars. We then moved on to start identifying some the more common species, such as separating Crows from Jackdaws, and Woodpigeon from Feral Pigeon of which there were plenty around!
We spent time trying to identify birds by sight by trying to gauge their look and feel, a technique often to referred to as their ‘Jizz.’ We also talked about trying to birdwatch as much as you can to learn the basics which will lead to more confidence.
Altogether a thoroughly enjoyable couple of hours in great company with the total of species seen or heard (*) being 25:
| Feral Pigeon | Common Woodpigeon | Carrion Crow | Jackdaw |
| Common Whitethroat | Blackcap | Long Tailed Tit | Eurasian Jay |
| Eurasian Blackbird | House Sparrow | Robin | Eurasian Wren |
| Common Magpie | Collared Dove | Ring Necked Parakeet | Swift |
| Swallow | Common Buzzard | Dunnock | Song Thrush |
| Eurasian Goldfinch | Eurasian Blue Tit | Great Tit | Common Chiffchaff |
| Cuckoo * | |||
Dave Kiddell