Friday 22nd May 2026: Blacktoft Sands

 We spent an afternoon here birdwatching with Helen on our way to Northumberland. It was lovely to spend time with Helen, but the birding was a little disappointing, with no sign of last year’s Bittern, although they are apparently nesting on site. 

A highlight here was a Cuckoo, which passed in front of the hide several times, very close on one occasion, giving some brilliant views. It was frequently calling as we moved around the reserve. 

Elsewhere, a few summer plumaged Sanderling were of interest, as they do not breed locally, so we are much more familiar with winter-plumaged birds. Avocets and Lapwings were breeding here, and lots of cute fluffy chicks were running around. 

Several Marsh Harriers soared over the reedbeds, and Reed Buntings popped up on the reeds. We heard Reed Warblers too, but failed to see any.

Also of note today, was the lovely colony of House Martins circling around her neighbour’s house and a screaming party of around half a dozen Swifts which appeared regularly over her garden, and must be breeding nearby. With so few Swifts in Shoreham, this was a real delight. 

Avocet