21st August 2022: Cattle Egrets and The Burgh

 We enjoyed a small group outing to The Burgh this morning, with a notable sighting on our way up to the downs of a field of cows with Cattle Egret at their feet. Our view was obscured by vegetation but we could see there were at least 15 birds present. From the downs, we noted a large flock in the air over the field, and on our return several hours later we were able to pull in and count 31 birds. Their behaviour is interesting to observe as they follow the moving cattle, at times so close to their feet you think they may be trampled on. We recently counted over 40 birds at Pagham Harbour where they are now established breeders. These may well have been the same birds, however, it was good to see them in the field with cattle rather than on the marsh at the harbour. This is a familiar sight on the continent and I guess as the UK population increases it will become increasingly common over here too, but for now it was an enjoyable spectacle.

Cattle Egrets

The Burgh itself offered its usual bonanza of raptors, although some of the winter species such as Hen Harrier are  absent. Good numbers of Red Kite were observed, some at close range, with their distinctive forked tails and lazy flight. These are increasingly common on the downs now. Buzzard and Kestrel were present and several Marsh Harriers at various stages of moult were also seen. But the star turn was a Hobby, long winged and angular as it dashed away in flight. 

A Barn Owl flew across the track in front of us but could not be relocated and a couple of Raven cronked across the skies. Several Whinchat foraging on the bushes were also noteworthy. We found both Grey and Red-legged Partridge in the arable fields and substantial flocks of Goldfinches and Linnets explored the extensive field margins planted with seed bearing wild flowers and shrubs. Three Curlew with bright yellow tags were feeding in the stubble of one field, birds which have recently been released in the area. Other tagged birds have been spotted on the River Adur in recent weeks. As we watched the Curlew a Hare bounded across the field before meting into the long grass.

With good company and pleasantly warm weather it was another good morning of birding.