Seaford Head 25/8/16

Yet again another morning with plenty of birds to see in yet more lovely conditions. No scarcity today but it was great to see my first Pied Flycatcher and Grasshopper Warbler of the autumn, two species that in theory should have been seen already. There were lots of House Martins today but going in no purposeful direction, with some going east whilst hugging the cliff edge, and other groups heading west a little bit inland. The sheep field by South Hill Barn now has plenty of Yellow Wagtails in, with a group of at least 70 birds.

Conditions felt perfect for a Honey Buzzard but work had me scuppering off earlier then I wanted, putting the raptor watch on hold 

Totals are:

Yellow Wagtail - 90

Tree Pipit - 7

Lesser Whitethroat - 9

Willow Warbler - 36

Whitethroat - 55

Wheatear - 12

Corn Bunting - 1

Whinchat - 3

Reed Warbler - 4

Blackcap - 7

Nightingale - 2

Grasshopper Warbler - 1

Hobby - 1 adult

Sedge Warbler - 3

Redstart - 1

Pied Flycatcher - 1

House Martin - ca. 600

Swallow - ca. 150

Swift - 2

Clouded Yellow - 5
Silver Spotted Skipper - 3

 Corn Bunting at the Dung Heap - not the Bunting I was hoping to encounter at first light

 A skulky Grasshopper Warbler in Hope Gap - just visible is the streaked crown and spotted undertail coverts

Wheatear at the Dung Heap