Honey-buzzard studies in Sussex
Honey-buzzards have been studied and surveyed in Sussex since the early 1990s, with many chicks ringed at the nest as part of a wider project in Britain. Survey work was intensified from 2020-2021, when there was a national survey, and in recent years much of the county has been covered. It is hoped that the whole county can be surveyed during the forthcoming BTO Atlas over the summers 2028-2031. The estimate of the number of pairs has increased gradually from single figures to about 20-25. Not all of these breed as younger birds may form pairs and summer here without actually nesting. In addition many unpaired birds spend the summer with us.
From 2024, several watchpoints have been made public, all published in the book ‘Where to Watch Birds in Surrey and Sussex’. Members are encouraged to visit these. If you do, only report on social media numbers seen, not details like the sex of birds, display, or breeding activity.
However please do send such details to the Recorder Recorder@sos.org.uk or to Mark Mallalieu mallalieum@gmail.com and good photographs are very welcome. This information can be vital in determining the numbers present and how many are breeding. Recently, the oldest ever breeding Honey-buzzard in Britain was found in Sussex, the ring number being read from an excellent photograph.
In 2025, an attempt was made to film breeding Honey-buzzards, but the pair did not nest successfully. However, in 2026 a successful breeding attempt was filmed, with two young fledging, and you can watch the recordings here. A short compilation of the activity at the nest between May and August is in preparation and will be added here when complete.
The Society part-funded this filming, which should contribute much to our understanding of the species’ breeding ecology in Sussex. In addition we have worked with the University of Sussex to ensure that the breeding event is properly documented.
If you enjoy watching these recordings, please think about joining SOS and so supporting more important conservation work and studies.
This project would not be possible without the support of:
Founded in 1961, the Friends of Ashdown Forest is a membership charity that supports the preservation and conservation of the Forest.
The Friends have provided financial support for this project, and over the years have donated over one million pounds to help protect this very special place.
A registered charity, the Ashdown Forest Foundation was set up in 2019 to raise vital funds for the Forest.
The Foundation has provided financial support to this and many other important projects across Ashdown Forest.
The Smew Fund
The Smew Fund is a localised charitable trust that provides grants to community groups, arts initiatives, and youth programs in Kent and the broader South East of England. It is administered by the Kent Community Foundation, which manages various philanthropic funds to support grassroots organisations across the region.
Wildlife Windows has nearly 20 years’ experiences of designing and installing high resolution wildlife-watching camera systems. The company provides the technical and ecological knowledge and experience to successfully film incredible wildlife in remote areas.
FAQs
Was this project given the necessary license’s, e.g. Schedule 1 permit?
Yes.
Were the birds disturbed by the film-making?
No, the equipment was installed well before the birds arrived in Britain and will be removed well after their departure.
Did the filmmakers have enough experience to avoid risk to the birds?
Yes, they specialise in filming breeding birds of prey and also received advice from leading British experts on Honey-buzzards.
Where is Sussex is this nest?
This is confidential, to avoid the risk of disturbance or harm to the birds.
Where can I see Honey-buzzards in Sussex?
Try one of the watchpoints mentioned in ‘Where to Watch Birds in Surrey & Sussex’ (Ed Stubbs & Matt Phelps, 2024).
Are Goshawks a risk to Honey-buzzards?
They can be. Goshawks may kill some young Honey-buzzards, and even adults. The presence of Goshawks may deter Honey-buzzards from nesting. However, many sites with Honey-buzzards in Sussex now also hold Goshawks.
Does the filming have scientific and conservation value?
Yes. University students will study the recordings and make field visits to document and analyse the events in detail. Similar work in Britain has only been done in Wales, so this SE England nest will make an interesting comparison. Honey-buzzard is a Priority Species in the Sussex Local Nature Recovery Strategies.
