A bit of a slow day at Rye Harbour, Ternery Pool gave only a single Greenshank and a handful of Mallards. An adult Little Grebe was feeding two juveniles with Sticklebacks, although the youngsters were of a size where they could feed themselves, nothing better than an easy meal.
Quarry held even less so I decided to take an almighty walk to Castle Water. When I arrived at the barns things changed somewhat. The bushes were alive with hordes of Chiffchaffs and the air was filled with House Martins on a feeding frenzy over the Long Pit, I estimated 300+ but it could easily have been 500, they were everywhere. I patiently waited and finally some birds began to settle on the overhead wires, probably 30-40 maximum but enough to get some shots. Then 10 minutes later, tired of sitting, they were off. I continued to Castle Water but it was very quiet so I turned round and headed back for Ternery Pool. By the time I had reached Long Pit again most of the birds had gone. Oddly enough I remarked to a fellow birder that I had seen few House Martins this year, well this certainly made up for it.
It must have been quiet for this chap to have his photo taken.
A great day out at Rye Harbour where a pair of Avocets and three young were giving great views. Totally unfazed by the passing birders, dog walkers and joggers the birds were very relaxed until any feathered intruder approached. Even a Ringed Plover was given short shrift and sent packing by a very protective parent.
