HASTINGS CP
Secluded plant-rich glens attract passage migrants
Spectacular, crumbling sea- cliffs of sandstone and clay bands bordering the English Channel along with sheer and rocky outcrops make for a spectacular backdrop to this large coastal country park to the east of Hastings. Three narrow valleys, known as glens, form a unique geological feature complete with woodland streams; a good spot for tired passage migrant. Open grassland, scrubland, sheep pasture, farmland and an old quarry combine to provide a range of bird-rich habitats for both migrant and resident birds alike.
WHERE TO WATCH
1
Check the old quarry for passage migrants such as Black Redstart and Redstart, Lesser Whitethroat and Whitethroat, Blackcap, Willow Warbler and Chiffchaff and later in the season for Goldcrest and Firecrest; a good spot for a chance of a Wryneck or Red-backed Shrike. Mixed passerine flocks often included Long-tailed Tits, Bullfinch, Goldcrest and Treecreeper, along with a chance of a continental Coal Tit. 2
The large sloping grass field often produces grounded Wheatear, Sky Lark, Meadow Pipit, Yellow and Pied Wagtails and on occasion the odd wader such as Whimbrel or Curlew, plus the likes of Tree Pipit, Grey Wagtail, Swift, hirundines and Hobby overhead. Scan fenceposts for Whinchat and Kestrel. Gorse scrub may hold Dartford Warbler along with Stonechat, Yellowhammer, Reed Bunting, Goldcrest and Whitethroat, and maybe a flushed Woodcock. Check around scrub margins for feeding Ring Ouzel and Redstart.
3
From the viewpoint scan for any overhead visible migration of wagtails, larks, hirundines, pipits, finches and thrushes, plus coasting raptors such as Sparrowhawk, Buzzard, Hobby, Red Kite or maybe a Honey Buzzard or Osprey. The sea cliffs attract the likes of Cormorant, Peregrine, Raven, Fulmar, Oystercatcher, Turnstone, Rock Pipit and Black Redstart. Scan out to sea with a scope for passing seabirds such as Red-throated Diver, Common Scoter, Gannet, Brent Goose, terns, gulls, auks and the chance of an Arctic or Great Skua.
4
Fairlight Glen is another good migrant trap for Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff, Blackcap, Tree Pipit, Redstart, Firecrest, Spotted and Pied Flycatchers and maybe a Yellow-browed Warbler. Passage Jay and Great Spotted Woodpecker are regular here among a range of common woodland species including Treecreeper and Nuthatch. Tawny Owls are often heard at dusk.