The rarest bird this week was an American Wigeon found at Scotney GP on 6th. Although initially seen on the Kent side of the border it was apparently on the Sussex side later in the afternoon (photo by Martin Casemore attached).
There were four Black-throated Divers on the sea off Lancing on 8th and singles were noted at Worthing on 5th and 7th.
Only one Black-necked Grebe was reported this week at Yapton (on 5th) and another was off Dell Quay (Chichester Hbr) on 7th. The Slavonian Grebe at Platinum Jubilee CP was there throughout the week, showing very well and by all accounts having a great time feasting on smooth newts and dragonfly larvae. Three other Slavonian Grebes were reported at East Head (West Wittering) on 2nd. A Red-necked Grebe flew west off Selsey Bill on 3rd and others were at Scotney GP on 7th and Worthing on 8th.
The Scaup at Scotney GP remained throughout the week and Velvet Scoters were noted at Selsey Bill on 2nd and Lancing on 8th.
Russian White-fronted Geese were still about with the largest count of 73 at Exceat (Cuckmere Haven) on 2nd. A flock was at Henfield Levels on 7th and up to 36 were present all week at Amberley Wild Brooks. Three birds were noted at Pagham Hbr on 2nd and 4th.
An adult Caspian Gull was found at Cuckmere Haven on 2nd and a 2cy was at Pett Level on 7th. There were several sightings of Little Gulls: the 2cy at Pulborough Brooks was observed daily until 5th and two adults put in an appearance there on 3rd. Singles were seen off St Leonards on 8th , Pagham Hbr on 5th and Worthing on 3rd and 7th.
The Glossy Ibis reported last week at Chichester GP was seen again on 7th and two were at Combe Valley CP on 8th.
A Water Pipit was at Waltham Brooks SWT on 2nd and Hawfinches were seen at Netherfield (6+ on 2nd) and West Dean Woods (20+ on 4th).
The Snow Bunting was seen well again on 6th and 7th at the northern end of the spit at East Head.
