At last I was able to get out for a full day yesterday. With the weather looking pretty good to the East it was decided to go to Rye Harbour. This was made more inviting with the possibility of my first ever White-winged Black Tern that had been at Castle Water since Saturday.
Just after arriving at the hide the Tern flew in and started to preen amid the Green Plover flock. Also present were 3 Little Stint, a Golden Plover, a Ruff along with sightings of Marsh Harrier and Kingfisher. After a while of watching the Tern come and go we headed to the western end of Castle Water where we were able to watch the Tern hawking for flying insects. Trying to get some pictures was not easy with the bird moving quickly and not coming particularly close but I was pleased to get some shots of this spectacular bird.
White-winged Black Tern.
Even this late in the year several butterflies were seen with up to 8 Clouded Yellow and Red Admiral and from the hide a fresh looking Small Copper. Dragonflies were also very numerous with several male Migrant Hawkers and lots of Common Darters, including several mating pairs seen.
Nice shots Bob, sorry we missed each other yesterday.
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