After failing to see Purple Sandpipers on Newhaven East pier for the past 2 winters, despite a few attempts, it was great to see that several had returned this winter, with around 8 seen. This is still well down on numbers from years gone by, but encouraging, all the same.
It was also a chance to try out the new camera on some birds that one could get pretty close to, so Lisa and I headed down to Newhaven, on a day that was not particularly bright. However, during our time there we were treated to around 30 minutes of unexpected sunshine.
Purple Sandpiper.
Ruddy Turnstone.
Purple Sandpiper in the sunshine.
I also wanted to see how well the camera would perform with flying birds. The main reason I changed the camera was that the cameras I normally use struggles at times with focussing on flying birds, and after missing a very close fly-by of a male Hen Harrier recently, I wanted to ensure that the new gear would be more reliable. I have always enjoyed watching and photographing the Fulmar, as they use the thermals just off the local chalk cliffs. It was quite early in the season for seeing these birds, so I didn't spend too much time there, but a couple of images gave me hope for success in future attempts. I just need that male Hen Harrier to fly close again!!
Fulmar.
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