We parked at Lancing Ring late afternoon and walked through the quarry, then wandered slowly along the track towards Cow Bottom. The hedgerows at the back of the paddocks here were alive with birds, plenty of Goldfinches and Linnets, a few Whitethroats, Willow Warblers, and a Spotted Flycatcher perched on a branch, then repeatedly sallying acrobatically into the air in pursuit of prey. But the highlight here was a gorgeous male Redstart, posing on the fenceline, then dropping to the ground out of view, before returning to the fence or a low branch, with a splendid flash of brilliant colour.
We continued across the field to the top of Cow Bottom, hoping for more migrants, but it was much quieter here. A Swift and chattering Swallows swept low across the fields. Beyond the gate we found three mewing Buzzards. I walked a little further and noted a Kestrel hovering overhead, then a red-trousered Hobby dashed past it, before disappearing over the fields.
Retracing our steps we spent more time watching the hedgerow, enjoying the Redstart. Overhead I saw a Sparrowhawk having an altercation with a pigeon, then a juvenile Green Woodpecker flew up from the long grass, giving a loud yaffle as it bounced across the field. I was beginning to wilt in the heat, so returned to the car, noting a second Green Woodpecker on the way.
It was a short but enjoyable excursion, and far more rewarding bird wise than we had anticipated, with the Redstart my first of the year, making me a happy bunny!!
Photos are illustrative and were not taken today!
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Spotted Flycatcher
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| Common Redstart |
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