Black-necked Grebe.

 For just over a week a Black-necked Grebe was at West Rise on the outskirts of Eastbourne. The bird wasn't quite in full breeding plumage, but it was getting close and was a beautiful bird.

I visited the site on several occasions hoping to get some nice images, and to also just enjoy watching the bird. As it was also a new species for Lisa, she was also keen to see it. The bird spent much of its time well out in the middle of the bay, well out of reach of the lenses we had, but occasionally it came within range.

A small selection of images of the bird over 4 visits below, which really show off the gorgeous red eye. In America the bird is known as an Eared Grebe due to the golden ear feathers which become more prominent in full breeding plumage.

Black-necked Grebe in sunshine and choppy conditions.

The bird was mainly fishing, but occasionally spotted a fly on the surface.

Black-necked Grebe feeding on a fly.

Black-necked Grebe.