At some nests in southern England there is very little wasp comb this year, though one had lots, suggesting that some, but not all adult Honey-buzzards may be relying more on frogs than is usual for this stage in the breeding season. Nevertheless, it seems to be a good year with 15-16 pairs found so far in the county and c.12 breeding, a high proportion. Over 50 different adults have been seen – thanks for all the photos that you are sending me and please keep them coming.

There’s been an excellent response to the SOS request not to publish photos of adults carrying food. Thank you. Please follow the same guidance with regard to juveniles at breeding sites, though photos in confidence to me will help determine breeding success. If you wish to see juveniles, they could be flying soon and certainly by mid-month. It’s well worth reminding yourself what juveniles look like: they soar on level wings like adults but the overall structure is like a strange mix between an adult Honey-buzzard and a Common Buzzard, so they can be very confusing when you first see one. The juveniles may remain in the Sussex breeding areas until early September.

Mark Mallalieu  mallalieum@gmail.com

5 August 2024