RSPB Pulborough Brooks, 15 November 2024   Leader Robert Watson

A baker’s dozen met up on a (thankfully) dry but grey morning. There was much chatter - en route to the Reserve, a Red kite had been narrowly avoided as it swooped down to some road kill and another member reported having newts in their kitchen. Nature is never dull.

From the viewing area by the wildlife pond we noted Pintail, Shoveler, Wigeon, Mute swan, Little grebe, Lapwing, Egyptian goose and Canada goose which were all down in the lake by West Mead Hide. We decided to head there first as there was obviously much to be observed. On the way, Magpie, Wood pigeon, Crow, Great tit, Long-tailed tit, Blackbird and 2 Great spotted woodpeckers were seen. A Green woodpecker was also heard. There was seating for all in the hide and several minutes were spent taking in the beautiful and busy scene before us. The new, tall fencing was discussed - on which side  were the badgers, foxes and deer to stay! Pied wagtail, Teal and Blackbird were added to our list and we were treated to a female Marsh harrier flying over.

We cut across the Reserve to go to the northern stretches of water. On the way, various members spotted Robin, Dunnock, Stonechat, Reed bunting, Goldcrest, Blue tit, Wren and Meadow pipit. A deviation was declared in order, so we headed to Winpenny hide where we saw Goldfinch, Heron, Starling and a Buzzard overhead. There were also more Little grebe, a wonderfully posed Stonechat and (the same?) Marsh harrier.

As The Hanger viewpoint was reached we were entertained by two ‘cavorting’ herons, one of which caught and swallowed a large fish. There were many Lapwing to be seen but this area of water was not as crowded as the southern lakes. However, Greylag goose, Jackdaw and (8) Black-tailed godwit were extra recordings as well as a very friendly (photographer’s dream) Great tit. Ruff were also spotted by a keen member but by that time most of the party had started on its way back to the RSPB Centre for refreshments. Late returners reported Chiff chaff and three grey squirrels.

On the botany front, there were spindle bushes with fruit of varying shades of pink and the following plants in flower - Prunella, Red campion, Ragwort, Hogweed, White deadnettle, Red clover and Nipplewort.

Thank you to the knowledgeable birders, photographers and iRecorders and all attendees for their friendly company over the two and a quarter mile walk.

  Gill Hance

  Header photo by Crawley & Horsham RSPB group