Sunday 22nd February: Shoreham Harbour

 We were  anticipating the rain would ease this afternoon, but in the event a sea fret was hanging over us, so although the rain ceased, it never really brightened. We therefore decided to drive down to Shoreham Harbour, in the hope of finally bagging a Purple Sandpiper for the year!

When we arrived the tide was still very high, and we were not optimistic. A few Turnstones were active on the beach and harbour arm, before perching on the jetty, but there was no sign of any Purple Sandpipers. A large bird was spotted diving in the water here, and on close inspection we discovered this was a juvenile Shag rather than a Cormorant, which are more frequently seen here. The slimmer bill and steep forehead were visible despite the weather, and it gave a characteristic leap as it dived beneath the waves in search of food.

Shag, juvenile

We strolled along to the end of the harbour arm, looking out into the mist over choppy seas, with a rolling fishing boat leaving the harbour, and the accompanying sound of an intermittent foghorn adding to the bleak atmosphere. Back at the beach, we finally managed to spot two Purple Sandpipers taking advantage of the rough waves lapping around the rocks and concrete groynes beside the jetty. So two new ticks making for a worthwhile trip, despite the miserable conditions.

Purple Sandpiper