This is the slightly overdue second part of my New Year’s Eve blog, and the promised bird life.
The tide was out which is always helpful for spotting the more unusual visitors as the seaweed-laden rocks are excellent feeding grounds. Oystercatchers are among the more regular visitors, though mussels rather than oysters are the mainstay of their diet.
Another fairly common visitor is the little egret. Several were feeding on the rocks, though they remain quite shy and prone to hop along the coast if disturbed.
Much harder to spot than the pure white egret are the much smaller ringed plovers. When in among the rocks and pebbles they all but disappear from view (perfect camouflage), but even they can’t remain hidden from view once they take to the air.
Finally, on many levels the pick of the bunch, a curlew. These large birds are very occasional visitors to the Rottingdean coast but make excellent use of their long curved bill to search out the tastiest food.
Camera note: all photos taken with the Canon 7D Mark II and EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM lens.
Fi dwyer
6 Jan 2016Lovely shots, as always Words. The Curlew is great. Have you ever captured an Avocet? Would love to see if you have. Happy New Year to you and Jackie. Fi xx
Words
8 Jan 2016Hi Fi, I’ve only once managed an avocet (and then from too far away)
And a very happy New Year to you and Just… we really must get together this year! W xx
Darko
7 Jan 2016Wow, that’s quite a few different birds for a day 🙂
Words
8 Jan 2016Darko, winter is always great for birds. The need to eat brings them flocking.