A couple of weeks ago, a group of members met up at the Knepp Estate in West Sussex for a wildlife walk. It was a bit breezy and the clouds were threatening but we did have some sunshine to help us on our way. A total of 30 bird species were seen during the visit, with the undoubted highlight being close up views of various White Stork nests which contained chicks, and other Storks were seen flying about, together with the ever present Red Kites and Buzzards, indicating the availability of food for them.
On the Hammer Pond, another highlight were the Great Crested Grebes, with 2 pairs of Grebelets looking like Humbugs, and a few Swallows were seen flying around. In addition, at least 3 Cuckoos were heard nearby, but sadly nothing from any Nightingales or Turtle Doves which do frequent the Estate.
On the non bird front, a Scarce Hawker Dragonfly was seen on a bush, as well as the attractive caterpillar of a Lackey Moth.
Scarce Hawker Dragonfly
A most enjoyable visit to an amazing place, which is of course currently being featured on BBC Springwatch, but with massive black clouds fast appearing, we only just made it back to the visitor centre before the heavens opened.
(All photos by Peter Dale)