West Sussex (23 February 2013)

23 February 2013.  A cold day in West Sussex with John King.  We started with two Jack Snipe and finished with two Barn Owls.  In between we saw Whooper Swan, 4 Egyptian Geese, Grey Wagtail, 3 Stonechats, 70+ Fieldfares, briefly singing Dartford Warbler, 2 Chiffchaffs, Coal Tit, 2 Jays and last but not least flocks of 8 and 10 Crossbills.

Whooper Swan, lovely bird, the bill pattern when seen head on is superb

third time lucky for us in West Sussex this winter, thanks to Mallard Green for tipping JK off

seen without blocking roads, opening gates or visiting Kent (although we failed on our visit there)!

chewing on a piece of grass, but not walking down the road (Ventura Highway or any other)

Egyptian Goose

male Crossbill, one of a flock of 8, was a pleasant surprise

it was singing very quietly although the flock had very musical calls when chasing each other around

a heavier billed bird than most in the flock

Crossbill and occasional snowflake

22 February 2013.  A Peregrine seen on Southwick Power Station chimney on the way to work.  Lights no longer needed for the journey.