At Arlington, the water held few birds other than great crested grebes and tufted ducks, but we did see a couple of swallows. Al found our only lesser whitethroat of the day, which sang briefly. A pied wagtail was small compensation for the lack of yellow wagtails. A distant turtle dove was heard from the car park.

John, Al and Sue continued on to Hope Gap. We walked down to Harry’s Bush and scanned the Cuckmere Haven, but again, there were few new species to add other than oystercatcher, curlew, Canada geese, etc. But Hope Gap proved more productive – with about ten wheatears, two fly-by whimbrel, stonechat, meadow pipit, fulmar and, at last, hobby. A raven flew over, cronking quietly, and another (or the same?) hobby. Though we had had to work hard, we were all pleased with our day and our species total of 65.

Two male blackcaps, two sparrowhawks, and three siskins were also of note.

Other birds seen included common gulls and common terns. A brief seawatch produced gannets, sandwich terns, great crested grebes, and a flock of sanderling.

At Ternery Pool we saw hundreds of black headed and Med gulls, but few other species other than greylag geese, tufted duck, little grebe, coot, little egret, grey heron and moorhen.

Walking in the direction of Harbour Barns, we were very thrilled to see our first yellow wagtails of the year, looking dazzling in the sunlight. Sedge warblers were singing from the scrubby bushes, and we found a common whitethroat which sang and showed briefly. Cetti’s warbler was heard here.

After a coffee break back at the car park, we headed to Dungeness. Here it was still very cold, but we found a few more ducks – long tailed, gadwall, teal, shoveler, pochard, wigeon. Pied wagtail was seen, and three yellow wagtails flew over the car park. Stock dove and Canada geese were added to the list, and Peter alerted us to three whimbrel flying over. Wheatear (a female) was another nice find, and more sedge warblers were heard. Moving on to the Hanson ARC Pit, we had excellent views of tree sparrows by Boulderwall Farm, and of three marsh harriers. Green woodpecker, chiffchaff and water rail were heard calling, and we finally managed to see swallows – three of them – and a kestrel.

Pictures to follow soon.

Original post on SOS website HERE.

Earlier in the week several people reported seeing Red Kites; mainly over the higher sections of the Forest.

It does seem that the barmy weather has really confused the birds.

There are notices posted on all gates that say, ‘Please ensure all gates are closed. Dogs must be kept under proper control at all times. If a dog is seen attacking or chasing livestock it could be shot. If you see any problems please ring the Forest Centre straight away Thank You’

During office hours the Forest Centre can be contacted on 01342 823583 or out of hours 01342 822846

Traveling across the Forest today (around 3pm) past Poundgate I could see billowing smoke coming from the next valley over beyond Crows Nest Clump. Fire engines, 4×4 rescue vehicles and a helicopter were all screaming to the scene. Pulling in at Poundgate with a throng of other people we watched as distant fire fighters tackled the blaze and the helicopter buzzed overhead.

I managed to take some, albeit distant, photographs.

The smoke was strongest around the perimeter of the pylon enclosure and being blown southwards by a cool breeze. I suspect this wasn’t helping the fire fighters!

Upon leaving Poundgate and driving up to the staggered crossroads, the Police had closed the road across the top of the Forest (with good reason!).

Later at around 6.40pm we were heading back in that direction and found that not only was the road still closed but New Road was also closed! After a detour down to Maresfield and back up the A26 we slowed to view the damage. The valley between Crows Nest Clump and Kings Standing looked completely scorched. There were still a few vehicles and people out there but the main blaze had been quelled fortunately.

I hope this hasn’t caused too much damage to the area. It has been a good spot for birds over the Winter months.