Steyning Downland Scheme Bird Survey Group
They did not stay long, after a brief altercation one fled westwards and the other soared slowly away to the north. The delightful, diminutive Siskin was also added to the list as was Cetti's Warbler. This had a long stay and may well have bred. Its sudden, brief, loud bursts of song could be heard frequently in the lower pond area. This is where the Nightingales have been heard (to the extent that the cinder track to the Rifle Range has been renamed Nightingale Lane) and like the Nightingale it is often heard, but rarely seen.
There were several winter sightings of Firecrest. This delightful and confiding little bird seems to be spreading across the county from its main breeding area on the western Downs and it would be very exciting if we recorded it on Steyning Downland Scheme in the summer.
While it is exciting to record new and unusual species, the Survey Group exists for the purpose of monitoring populations of all species and what is happening to the commonest species is important. The wide range of habitats on the Scheme is the reason for our long list of species and it vital to know how management initiatives may be affecting bird populations.
Our long list of regular species shows one or two changes: Blackbird, Woodpigeon, Blue Tit, Carrion Crow, and Robin take the first five places, followed by Wren, Magpie, Great Tit, Chaffinch, Chiffchaff and Dunnock. It comes as a surprise to see Chiffchaff in ninth place, reflecting the greater likelihood now of seeing this species in the winter months.
Our informal, regular surveys take in the areas around the ponds, the Rifle Range, Steyning Coombe and the Lower Horseshoe. This year we hope to spend some more time investigating breeding birds in these areas and also fit in some extra visits to the neglected area of Pepperscombe.
We are always happy to welcome new members to the group, experienced birdwatchers and beginners alike. The group meets on the second Sunday of every month, usually half an hour after sunrise. You need to be fit enough to walk up the steep and sometimes muddy slopes of the Steyning Downland Scheme. Stout footwear and binoculars essential.
If you would like to join us, please contact Bob Platt on 01903 812404 or bobplatt69@gmail.com.