Saturday 27th December 2025: River Adur with family

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 We took a short stroll across to the river today, with Emilie keen to try out the new binoculars she got for Christmas, and also hoping for some new ticks!

By the railway bridge we found nearly thirty Turnstones, incredibly camouflaged against the shingle, but small movements revealing their presence as they foraged amongst the stones in search of food. A single Oystercatcher, standing next to a tidal puddle, was much easier to see, as was a Redshank feeding along the water's edge, its bright legs giving a strong clue to its identity!

A small mixed flock of waders was restive, at times settling on the exposed muddy shoreline, then circling low over the water before coming back in to feed once more. We crept nearer and with some prompting Emilie was able to see both Ringed Plover and Dunlin, both new birds for her. Continuing on beyond the Old Toll Bridge, a mixed gull flock contained a group of around half a dozen Common Gulls, a new species for both Emile and Kayte.

Heading back towards home, I suddenly spotted a Grey Plover sat in front of some debris, another new bird for Emile. And finally, to finish an excellent morning, we were tipped off to the presence of a Kingfisher, one of Emilie’s favourite birds, which we managed to find perched on the top of a red and white boat. 

Grey Plover

It had been a very cold,  but worthwhile excursion, and our visitors arrived back happy!


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