
The Birds Of Ovingdean/Roedean Records to the end of 2004. Northern Fulmar Fulmarus glacialis The Northern Fulmar is a common sight along this stretch of coastline with several pairs breeding along the cliffs between the Marina and Saltdean. This number is boosted in the winter with many birds lingering and regularly being seen in the beach roost. Birds also pass in good numbers during the Spring and Autumn migration but despite these birds occurring only a few hundred yards from Roedean this remains a rarity at this site with only one record previous to 2002 when there was a flurry of records. This species is rare anywhere inland in Sussex with only ten inland records. On April 18, 1999 a Northern Fulmar (ITB) flew North along the field edge at the Western end of Roedean School for about 800 yards before turning South and returning out to sea On April 16, 2002 a Northern Fulmar (ITB) was seen. On May 2, 2002 a Northern Fulmar (ITB) was seen flying over Roedean Bottom. On June 15, 2002 a Northern Fulmar (ITB) was seen flying over Roedean Bottom. On August 12, 2002 a Northern Fulmar (ITB) was seen flying over the southern end of Roedean Bottom. Northern Gannet Sula bassana The Northern Gannet is a regular passage bird along our coast with many birds lingering and feeding in suitable conditions. This bird remains a scarcity anywhere inland although an individual has been noted roosting on a house in Seaford and presumably the same bird has been seen over the Kemptown area of Brighton. Only one record exists of this species at this site. On December 24, 2001 a Northern Gannet (ITB) was observed soaring with Gulls over the under cliff walk in the area of Ovingdean Café. The bird then followed a few Gulls across the A259 and soared over the field to the East of Roedean school for about three minutes before heading out to sea. On September 1, 2004 one flew west over Cattle Hill (ITB) Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo The Great Cormorant is regular in Sussex all along the coast and at most inland waters. There is also a large inland roost on the river Adur. But birds have only been recorded on a few occasions before 2002 flying over the Roedean/Ovingdean area. A flurry of records for 2002 including an amazing flock of 120 birds. On September 11, 1998 four Cormorants (ITB) flew West over Ovingdean farm in a tight group and continued towards Sheepcote Valley. On August 31, 1999 a group of three birds flew East (KBG). On November 7, 1999 a single Cormorant (ITB) flew West over Roedean before heading out to sea. On February 18, 2002 a party of six Cormorants (ITB) flew East over Cattle Hill continuing East over the village of Ovingdean. On January 1, 2002 an amazing flock of 120 Cormorants was seen flying west over Roedean school (ITB) On February 18, 2002 a group of 6 Cormorants was seen flying east over Roedean school (ITB) On March 18, 2002 a single bird flew east over Cattle Hill (ITB) On March 30, 2002 a group of 16 Cormorants flew east over Roedean school (ITB, IJW) On May 7, 2002 a single bird flew north over Roedean school (ITB) On May 9, 2002 a single bird flew east over Roedean school (ITB) On June 11, 2002 a group of 5 Cormorants flew west over Roedean school (ITB) On July 18, 2002 a single bird flew north east over Bullstrode Farm (ITB) On September 25, 2002 an immature flew north east over Roedean school (ITB) On September 14, 2003 2 birds flew east over Cattle Hiil (ITB) Night Heron Nycticorax nycticorax The Night Heron has occurred 29 times in Sussex prior to the end of 2001. There is a single record of a first summer bird in the Roedean/Ovingdean area. On May 12, 2000 a first summer Night Heron (ITB) that had been present at Brighton Marina since about 5.30 am and was initially found by KBG and IJW flew East from the Marina and flew low calling over Roedean school. It then flew along the line of the hedge gaining height and circled over Ovingdean being mobbed by Gulls. It dropped into trees in a garden in Beacon Hill and remained there until 21.05 when it flew North West. Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis The Cattle Egret has been recorded annually in Sussex for the last few years, previously being a very rare vagrant. This recent phenomenon could be the same bird returning to Sussex to winter or they could all relate to different individuals. One has been recorded in the Roedean/Ovingdean area. On January 24, 1999 a Cattle Egret was reported by a local dog walker. News was released of the birds presence on January 26, 1999 and many birders enjoyed close views of the bird as it remained associating with the cattle close to the road and roosting in trees behind the church. The bird remained until May 10, 1999 during it's stay it visited many parts of the area including the grounds of Roedean School and on occasions could be viewed from Brighton Marina. Grey Heron Ardea cinerea The Grey Heron was a regular visitor to Roedean/Ovingdean in winter. Birds that feed along the shoreline roost in fields adjacent to Greenways, Ovingdean and in the trees behind the Church. The peak count being of seven birds (ITB) roosting in the winter period 1999/2000. Single birds have also been noted in the ploughed field in Roedean Bottom. Although in recent years they have become scarce with only 2 sightings of single birdds in 2003. Mute Swan Cygnus olor Mute Swan is a common bird in Sussex with many wintering in the river valleys to the East and West of Brighton. A few are seen on the Brighton coast in winter mainly at The Marina and further west with a large gathering usually present at Southwick. On September 17, 1998 a group of three birds (KBG) flew North East over Roedean. On November 7, 1998 a family group of Mute Swans (ITB) consisting of two adults and three juveniles flew West over Roedean. On September 18, 2002 a Mute Swan flew north through Roedean Bottom and into Woodingdean. White-Fronted Goose Anser albifrons White-Fronted Geese are seen almost annually passing Brighton Marina and are annual elsewhere in Sussex. Only one record exists for the area. On December 3, 1998 a flock of 27 Whitefronts (KBG) flew North East over Roedean Bottom at 9:30. They were later seen in the Cuckmere valley. Greylag Goose Anser anser The Greylag Goose is a fairly common introduced resident and winter visitor. It is also noted a scarce passage migrant in the county of Sussex. On March 24, 2002 2 Greylags flew over Roedean (KBG). Bean Goose Anser fabalis The Bean Goose is a rare vagrant to Sussex with most records relating to the subspecies rossicus or Tundra Bean Goose. A record exists for this Roedean/Ovingdean but no details to subspecies are on record. On January 27, 1963 a group of four Bean Geese (SOS) were seen on a field between Ovingdean and Roedean they remained until January 29, 1963. They were then seen again but with five individuals from February 4, 1963 to February 6, 1963. Canada Goose Branta Canadensis Canada Goose is a common site throughout Sussex but only 3 records exist for the area. On March 25, 1997 a Flock of 7 Canada Geese (KBG) flew North East over Roedean Bottom. On April 14, 2002 a flock of 3 Canada Geese flew north east over Roedean school (ITB). On March 27, 2004 a flock of 4 flew north east over Roedean School (ITB) Dark-bellied Brent Goose Branta bernicla The Dark bellied Brent Goose is a very common winter visitor to coastal harbours in Sussex and a common passage migrant along the coast. On April 7, 2002 2 birds flew north up through Greenways Bottom (ITB). On October 29, 2004 a flock of 6 birds flew west over Cattle Hill (ITB) Mallard Anas platyrhynchos The Mallard is a common resident and winter visitor in the county of Sussex. Only one record exists of 2 birds in the Ovingdean/Roedean area. A pair of Mallard circled around the southern end of Roedean Bottom (ITB) on April 16, 2002 before seeming to land in a swimming pool in a Roedean garden. Red Kite Milvus milvus The Red Kite is rare visitor throughout the year and formerly bred in the county of Sussex. There is just a single record for the Ovingdean/Roedean area. On March 25, 2002 a single wing tagged Red Kite flew low east over Cattle Hill (IJW). Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus The Marsh Harrier is a scarce passage migrant and rare winter visitor in the county of Sussex. With just 2 records, both in 2002, in the Ovingdean/Roedean area. On July 14, 2002 a Marsh Harrier flew west over Cattle Hill (ITB, IJW). On August 11, 2002 a Marsh Harrier (ITB) circled over Cattle Hill gaining height before heading south. Hen Harrier Circus cyaneus The Hen Harrier is noted as a scarce but regular winter visitor and passage migrant in Sussex. Only one record exists for the Roedean/Ovingdean area. On April 24, 2003 an adult male Hen Harrier flew north through Greenways Bottom (ITB). Montagu's Harrier Circus pygargus Montagu's Harrier is a scarce summer visitor to Sussex with most individuals being seen on passage. A few birds remain in suitable areas of the Sussex downs but breeding has not been recorded in the county since 1962. There is only one record for Roedean/Ovingdean. On August 29, 2001 a juvenile (KBG) flew East at 17:10 being mobbed by Carrion Crows. The bird was observed from the Café at Roedean golf course and was first seen along Brighton Seafront at 17:00 and followed by the observer on a push bike. Common Buzzard Buteo buteo The Buzzard is becoming a more common site throughout most of Sussex. A Common Buzzard (IJW) flew over Roedean on September 22, 2001. On March 24, 2002 a group of 3 Common Buzzards flew high east (IJW, KBG) followed by a single bird (IJW, KBG) On August 15, 2003 a Common Buzzard flew west over Roedean School at 17:00 (ITB) Sparrowhawk Accipiter nisus The Sparrowhawk is a regular sight in Roedean/Ovingdean. They are seen roosting in the trees behind the church, in the bushes around the school or hunting over the fields. They are also regularly seen hunting in the gardens of Ovingdean. Both Males and Females are noted throughout the year. Breeding has not been noted in the area but they are presumed to breed close by with immature birds seen annually. Northern Goshawk Accipiter gentiles The Goshawk is a scarce and very secretive bird in Sussex and is surrounded in much secrecy. A Female Goshawk (ADW) flew North over Bulstrode farm on May 6, 1995. One was recorded over Cattle Hill behind Roedean school and was viewed from the West arm of Brighton Marina on April 2, 2000 (ITB, IJW). A female Goshawk was seen flying north over Cattle Hill on March 30, 2002 (ITB). Kestrel Falco tinnunculus The Kestrel is seen daily with four or more birds seen regularly. They hunt over the whole area of Roedean/Ovingdean. They are also a regular breeder with a pair nesting in the woods behind the church and another pair nesting nearby on the cliffs. Hobby Falco subbuteo The Hobby is a regular passage bird to Roedean/Ovingdean with birds being recorded in both Spring and Autumn although only one has been seen to linger, a juvenile on October 15, 1999 (KBG). Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus Peregrine Falcons breed locally in Brighton to the West and Lewes to the East. They are seen regularly hunting along the coast but relatively few records exist for Roedean/Ovingdean. One recorded on January 19, 1988 (SOS). A large female recorded flying over with prey on September 10, 1994 (IJW). One recorded on April 22, 1995 (PJW). One recorded on March 25, 1999 (SOS). A female sat in a ploughed field near the golf course on September 9, 1999 (ITB). One recorded flying West at high altitude on April 7, 2000 (ITB). An immature female over Roedean on October 3, 2001 (IJW). One flew west over Roedean Bottom on March 24, 2002 (ITB). One flew east over Roedean school on March 30, 2002 (ITB). One was seen on August 21, 2002 (ITB). One was seen on September 2, 2002 (ITB). One was seen on September 18, 2003 (ITB). One was seen on September 16, 2004 (ITB). Merlin Falco columbarius A winter visitor to Sussex but scarce in Roedean/Ovingdean. One recorded flying West on July 3, 1994 (SOS). One recorded flying North along the West side of Greenways Bottom, Ovingdean on August 30, 1998 (ITB). One recorded flying over Cattle Hill on December 28, 2000 (KBG). One recorded flying East over Cattle Hill on March 17, 2001 (ITB). One recorded on March 26, 2002 (ITB). 2 were seen on April 2, 2002 one of which was seen to fly strongly out to sea (ITB) One flew over Ovingdean (ITB) on March 18, 2004 Red-Legged Partridge Alectoris rufa The red legged Partridge is scarce in this part of Sussex and still remains a much sought after tick in nearby Sheepcote Valley. An adult was recorded in the grounds of Roedean school on March 21, 1998 (ITB). One was recorded on April 8, 1999 (KBG). An adult was recorded in the field behind Roedean school on March 17, 2000 (ITB) and was later joined by a second adult on March 20, 2000 (ITB). What is presumed to be these two birds have be seen regularly in the Roedean/Ovingdean area up to the 2002 first winter period. They were last recorded with another bird on May 7, 2002. On March 18, 2004 one was seen on Cattle Hill (ITB) On April 14, 2004 three were seen on Cattle Hill (ITB) On April 16, 2004 on was seen Grey Partridge Perdix perdix The Grey Partridge bred in previous years in Sheepcote Valley but is no longer present. Earlier records suggest they were quite common in the Roedean/Ovingdean area but are now seen less frequently. On October 15, 1994 10 birds were present (SOS). On August 8, 1996 12 Birds were present (IJW). On September 2, 1998 one was heard calling in Roedean Bottom (ITB). On September 15, 1998 a Male was seen in Greenways Bottom (ITB). On April 30, 1999 a Female was seen in Roedean Bottom (ITB). On June 25, 1999 2 were seen in Roedean Bottom (ITB). On October 8, 1999 3 were seen in Roedean Bottom (KBG). On December 28, 2000 3 birds flushed from a set aside field to the East of Roedean School (ITB). On July 19, 2001 1 Bird was seen in Roedean Bottom (ITB). On March 12, 2002 2 birds were seen (ITB). On April 21, 2002 2 birds were seen (IJW). On April 26 a single bird was seen (ITB). Quail Coturnix cotuurnix Quail are annually heard calling from crop fields along the Downs. 4 records exist for the area with 3 taken from the Sussex database and it is not known if any of the birds were seen in those 3 records. One was reported on May 27, 1982 (SOS). One was reported on October 7, 1982 (SOS). One was reported on May 30, 1991 (SOS). On April 5, 2002 a Quail was flushed from set aside on Cattle Hill but could not be relocated despite extensive searching (ITB). Common Pheasant Phasianus colchicus A common bird throughout Sussex but sightings remained very scare from the Roedean/Ovingdean area but the species is now regular On September 23 1998 an adult male was seen near the woods behind Ovingdean church (ITB). On October 20, 2001 an adult male was seen near the woods behind Ovingdean woods (IJW). It was joined by a second dark green phase bird on October 28, 2001 (IJW). Both birds were seen again on October 29, 2001 near the hedge behind Roedean School (ITB), and again in the school grounds on November 2, 2001 (ITB).These 2 birds were again seen in the first winter period of 2002 with the last record being April 22, 2002 (ITB). On November 15, 2002 a pheasant was heard calling near Bullstrode farm (ITB). During 2003 Pheasants were regularly seen or heard with a peak count 4 birds with 3 males and 1 female at least present. Common Crane Grus grus The Common Crane is a rare visitor to the county of Sussex, and has been recorded twice in the Ovingdean/Roedean area with both sightings attributed to the same lucky observer. 1 Flew North North West in off the sea and through Greenways Bottom on November 7, 2000 (IJW). An adult Common Crane was on view for 15 minutes between 13:55 and 14:10 as it flew north through Roedean Bottom on March 28, 2002 (IJW). Oystercatcher Haematopus ostralegus A scarce breeding bird in Sussex having once become extinct as a breeding bird. But a common winter visitor to the Sussex shorelines. Birds tend to congregate to roost along the beach at Ovingdean but only 2 records exist for the Roedean/Ovingdean area. On April 27, 2000 a single Oystercatcher (ITB) was feeding on the short turf by the entrance to Roedean School. On May 3, 2000 2 Oystercatchers (ITB) were feeding on the short turf by the entrance to Roedean School. Ringed Plover Charadrius hiaticula The Ringed Plover is noted as a fairly common breeder, pasage migrant and winter visitor in the county of Sussex. Only one record exists for the Roedean/Ovingdean area. On November 8, 2003 2 Ringed Plovers flew west calling over Cattle Hill (ITB). Northern Lapwing Vanellus vanellus A declining breeding bird in Sussex but a very common winter visitor with birds favoring the flooded areas of the river valleys. On September 1, 1998 one was heard calling but not seen (ITB) as it flew over the Cattle Hill area. On October 13, 1999 one was seen independently by 2 observers (ITB, KBG) on Cattle Hill. On November 5, 1999 one was seen in Greenways Bottom (ITB). On December 28, 2000 5 birds were feeding in the set-aside field to the East of Roedean School. On September 29, 2001 2 birds flew South East (IJW). Golden Plover Pluvialis apricaria The Golden Plover is a common winter visitor to suitable areas of Sussex, locally mainly in the Lewes Brooks and Pevensey areas. Only 4 records exist for the area. On October 15, 2000 the call of a Golden Plover (KBG) was heard as it flew over but was not seen. On December 28, 2000 a Golden Plover (ITB) flew South West calling over Cattle Hill. On October 14, 2001 a Golden Plover (IJW) flew North calling. On September 23, 2003 a Golden Plover flew west calling (ITB). Grey Plover Pluvialis squatarola The Grey Plover winters along the coast in Sussex with the main concentrations being in Chichester and Pagham harbours. There are only 2 records for the Roedean/Ovingdean area but the first record is of a heard only individual. On October 11, 1999 a Grey Plover (KBG) was heard calling as it flew over but was not seen. On November 12, 2003 a Grey Plover (ITB) circled over Cattle Hill calling before flying off west. Dotterel Charadrius morinellus The Dotterel is a very scarce passage migrant in Sussex. It is seen annually in nearby fields on the downs. The only record for the area is the second earliest occurrence in Sussex falling second to 1 recorded near Seaford on March 22, 1853. There has also been a record of a bird that wintered at Rye in 1992. On April 3, 2000 a Dotterel flew in of the sea calling at 18:18 and continued flying North calling constantly as it went. Snipe Gallinago gallinago The Snipe is a common breeding bird and common winter visitor to Sussex. The lack of records for the area is probably related to the lack of observation during the suitable period for records to occur. On October 13, 2001 a single Snipe (IJW) flew East. On October 27, 2001 a single Snipe (ITB) flew East. Bar-Tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica The Bar-Tailed Godwit is a scarce Winter visitor with most being restricted to Chichester harbour but is a common passage bird with the largest movements being noted in spring from sea-watching sites. On April 27, 2000 a flock of 50 birds (ITB) deviated from their passage along the coast and flew East over the Southern end of Greenways Bottom. On May 7, 2002 a flock of 28 birds (ITB) flew north east over Cattle Hill. This flock also held a single Whimbrel. Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa The Black-tailed Godwit is a common winter visitor and passage migrant to Sussex also small numbers may summer. On September 9, 2003 a flock of 22 Black-tailed Godwits flew east over Cattle Hill (ITB). These birds were also seen from nearby Whitehawk Hill. Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus The Whimbrel is a common passage bird in Sussex with the main passage being in the spring. A few birds may over-winter. On April 27, 2000 a flock of 8 Whimbrel )ITB) flew East over the southern end of Roedean Bottom. On April 29, 2000 2 Whimbrel (ITB) flew east over the southern end of Roedean Bottom. On May 16, 2000 a single Whimbrel (ITB) flew east. On September 5, 2001 3 Whimbrel (ITB) flew south over Cattle Hill with a flock of 17 Curlew. On May 7, 2002 a Whimbrel (ITB) flew north east over Cattle Hill with a flock of Bar-tailed Godwits. On August 11, 2002 a Whimbrel flew south west over Bullstrode farm calling (ITB). On April 11, 2003 2 Whimbrel were in the field to the east of Roedean School (ITB). On April 18, 2003 a Whimbrel was in a field in Greenways bottom(ITB). It remained till the 21st and was joined by a second bird on the 19th. On May 14, 2003 7 Whimbrel flew eeast over Cattle Hill (ITB). Curlew Numenius arquata The Curlew is a common passage migrant and winter visitor to Sussex. It used to be a very scarce breeder but is now sadly extinct as a breeding bird. On November 18,1998 a single Curlew (ITB) was seen feeding in fields on Cattle Hill. On April 8, 1999 2 Curlew (KBG) flew high east. On March 21, 2000 a single Curlew (ITB) flew south calling through Roedean Bottom. On July 18, 2000 a single Curlew (ITB) flew South East over Cattle Hill. On September 5, 2001 a flock of 17 Curlew (ITB) and 3 Whimbrel flew south over Cattle Hill. On May 7, 2002 a single Curlew flew west (ITB). On June 25, 2002 a group of 3 Curlew flew south east over Bullstrode farm. On September 3, 2003 a single Curlew flew south over Cattle Hill (ITB). Greenshank Tringa nebularia A fairly common passage migrant and scarce winter visitor to Sussex One flew west over Cattle Hill calling (ITB) on August 15, 2004 Green Sandpiper Tringa ochropus The Green Sandpiper is a passage migrant that is far more common during the autumn migration than during the spring. It is also a scarce winter visitor. On August 22, 1999 a single Green Sandpiper (ITB) flew calling west over Bullstrode farm. Ruddy Turnstone Arenaria interpres The Ruddy Turnstone is a common winter visitor to our Sussex coastline and is often seen on passage. On November 7, 1998 a single Ruddy Turnstone (ITB) was seen trailing a flock of 5 Mute Swans as they flew west over Roedean. Arctic Skua Stercorarius parasiticus The Arctic Skua is a common passage migrant and is the commonest Skua seen along the Sussex coast during migration. A few birds have also been noted during the summer and winter periods. On April 27, 2001 a single Arctic Skua (IJW) was seen to fly East along the coast and then head north east over Roedean School. Black Headed Gull Larus ridibundus The Black Headed Gull is the most numerous gull in Sussex with large numbers occurring along the coast. The Black Headed Gull can be seen throughout the year in the Ovingdean, Roedean area but is most numerous in the winter months when large numbers gather over the stubble fields before they go to roost on the beach. Common Gull Larus canus The Common Gull is a numerous Gull in Sussex throughout the Winter period. Large numbers gather over the fields in the Ovingdean, Roedean area before they go to roost. Herring Gull Larus argentatus argenteus The Herring Gull of the sub-species argenteus is very common throughout Sussex. It is one of the most adaptable of the Gulls with many moving inland and nesting on many Sussex rooftops. They are very common throughout the year in the Ovingdean, Roedean area but none has yet bred on any rooftops in the Village. Lesser Black Backed Gull Larus fuscus graellsii The Lesser Black Backed Gull is a very rare breeding bird in Sussex and is therefore uncommon during the Summer months when mostly immature birds are seen. During the Winter period a few birds can be seen in the daytime gatherings of gulls on the fields in the Ovingdean, Roedean area. Great Black Backed Gull Larus marinus The Great Black Backed Gull is common in Sussex throughout the winter period but has only just been proved to have bred although a few immature birds have always summered. A few birds can be seen regularly in the daytime gatherings of gulls in the Ovingdean, Roedean area. One record of 2 Adult birds over Cattle Hill with a Juvenile bird on August 9, 2000 (ITB) may have been a local breeding pair. Mediterranean Gull Larus melanocephalus The Mediterranean Gull has become a fairly common winter visitor to the Sussex coast with some remaining to summer. Breeding has now also occurred. Birds regularly roost on the beach at Ovingdean throughout the winter but only 3 have been recorded in this area. On February 19, 1999 an adult winter Mediterranean Gull (ITB) was seen with Black Head Gulls over fields in Greenways Bottom. On February 20, 1999 a different adult winter Mediterranean Gull (ITB) was seen over fields in Roedean Bottom. On December 24, 2001 an adult winter Mediterranean Gull (ITB) was seen roosting in the field in Greenways Bottom. On July 15, 2002 an adult in summer plumage was over Roedean school (ITB). On February 24, 2003 2 Adult Meditereanean Gulls were in a freshly ploughed field in Greenways Bottom (ITB). On February 26, 2003 3 Adult Meditereanean Gulls were in a freshly ploughed field in Greenways Bottom (ITB). On March 13, 2003 An Adult Mediterranean Gull was seen (ITB). Little Gull Larus minutes The Little Gull is a regular passage bird along the coast of Sussex but only a few birds remain to winter or summer. Only one record exists for the area. On February 7, 1999 a Little Gull (SOS) was noted over fields in Greenways Bottom. This was during the stay of the Cattle Egret when many observers were visiting the site daily. It was also reported to have been seen on other days but no details are available. Sandwich Tern Sterna sandvicensis The Sandwich Tern is a scarce breeding summer visitor, passage migrant and very rare winter visitor in Sussex. Many pass offshore during the spring and autumn but only one record exists for the Ovingdean/Roedean area. On July 21, 2002 a Sandwich Tern (ITB) flew south through Greenways Bottom. Common Tern Sterna hirundo The Common Tern is a regular sight during the summer period all along the coast and at inland waters. There is only one record for the area. On October 11, 2000 a juvenile Common Tern (KBG) was observed flying along the cliffs in front of Roedean school before turning into Greenways Bottom. Feral Pigeon Columba livia The Feral Pigeon is a very common site in Sussex and large numbers inhabit the area around Brighton. Large flocks of Feral Pigeons are regular sites feeding on the fields and flying over the Ovingdean, Roedean area. Stock Dove Columba oenas The Stock Dove is a common bird in Sussex but it's preference for nesting in large trees mean it's scarce from the built up areas on the coastal plains. A few birds can be seen during the Autumn and larger numbers sometimes gather during the Winter periods . On March 11, 2000 a large group of 80 Stock Doves (ITB) fed in the stubble field to the East of Roedean school in a mixed group of Feral Pigeons, Wood Pigeons and Collard Doves. On December 28, 2000 a very large group of 120 Stock Doves (ITB) were feeding in the stubble field to the East of Roedean school with a small group of Feral Pigeons. Wood Pigeon Columba palumbus The Wood Pigeon is a common sight in Sussex. They are seen all year on the fields of Ovingdean and Roedean and breed in the woods behind Ovingdean church. During the late Autumn and early Winter period large numbers of Wood Pigeons move along the coast usually for the first few hours of daylight. The lack of time spent at the site during this period means that the highest count is much lower than the actual movements as recorded at other local sites. The largest counts follow: On November 11, 1995 a total of 2400 Wood Pigeons (SOS) flew west in 40 minutes. On November 5, 2001 a total of 3267 Wood Pigeons (ITB) flew west. Turtle Dove Streptopelia turtur The Turtle Dove is noted as a widespread breeding bird in Sussex with a strong Easterly bias but is very uncommon around the Brighton area. On August 31, 1999 a juvenile (KBG) was seen feeding by the hedge behind Roedean school. On August 27, 2001 a single Turtle Dove (ITB) was seen flying North East over Cattle Hill. On October 6, 2001 a juvenile Turtle Dove (IJW) was seen. On October 13, 2001 2 juvenile Turtle Doves (IJW) were seen. On August 26, 2002 a juvenile Turtle Dove flew west over Cattle Hill (ITB). On September 11, 2002 a single Turtle Dove was seen (IJW). On May 9, 2003 a single Turtle Dove was seen on Cattle Hill (ITB). On August 28, 2003 2 Turtle Doves were seen in Roedean Bottom (ITB) . On May 1, 2004 a single Turtle Dove was in the grounds of Roedean School (ITB). Collared Dove Streptopelia decaocto The Collared Dove only arrived in Sussex in 1958 which was three years after it's initial colonization of Britain. It is now estimated that there is now a population of around 8000 pairs. The is always a flock present in the Ovingdean/Roedean area with the main gathering around Bullstrode Farm. The highest counts are as follows: On October 23, 1994 (SOS) a flock of 180 birds were counted. On November 15, 1994 (SOS) a flock of 75 birds were counted. Rose Ringed Parakeet Psittacula krameri The Rose Ringed Parakeet is native to the Oriental and northern Afro tropical regions. In Sussex a colony of feral birds resided in Hollingbury Woods from at least 1977 but have since moved on with no breeding records now noted. Birds are now generally only noted as scarce flyovers. On October 17, 1989 a single Rose Ringed Parakeet (SOS) was recorded. On October 8, 1994 a single Rose Ringed Parakeet (IJW) was seen flying over. On October 14, 2000 a single Parakeet that was probably of this species (KBG) was seen flying west over Roedean school. On November 13, 2003 A Ring-necked Parakeet flew north east over Greenways Bottom (ITB). Cuckoo Cuculus canorus The Cuckoo is a fairly common summer visitor to Sussex but unsuitable habitat means they are scarce around the Brighton area. At present only 2 record exist for the Ovingdean/Roedean area. On May 14, 1990 a Cuckoo (PD) was observed in the Ovingdean/Roedean area, On the afternoon of August 3, 1999 a female Cuckoo of the rufous morph (ITB) was seen sitting on fence posts at Bullstrode farm. On July 23, 2002 a Cuckoo (ITB) flew east over Cattle Hill. Barn Owl Tyto alba The Barn Owl was a scarce breeding resident in the county of Sussex. Numbers have increased recently and in suitable habitat a hunting Barn Owl is now a fairly common sight. An individual wintered in the area during the 2000/2001 period and was mainly seen after dark hunting under the street lights along Greenways in Ovingdean. It was first noted on December 22, 2000 and last seen on February 18, 2001. A Barn Owl was seen in Greenways Bottom on the evening of August 3, 2002 and again on August 4, 2002 (ITB). Long-eared Owl Asio otus The Long-eared Owl is noted as a rare breeding resident and winter visitor in Sussex. Small numbers are known to breed in suitable habitat but many are probably overlooked as they can be very secretive and in inaccessible areas. Larger numbers move into the county in winter and gather in communal roost but again many must remain un-found. A Long-eared Owl (ITB) spent the winter period of 1997 in the Ovingdean area and was regularly seen after dark perched on fence posts along Greenways. Short-eared Owl Asio flammeus The Short-eared Owl is a scarce winter visitor to Sussex, but it's numbers can fluctuate widely with severe weather on the continent pushing large numbers into Britain to feed. On October 18, 1982 a Short-eared Owl (SOS) was reported from the Ovingdean/Roedean area. On October 11, 1991 a Short-eared Owl (PD) was observed from the Ovingdean/Roedean area. On November 21, 1998 a Short-eared Owl (ITB) was observed hunting over the southern end of the golf course. On October 20, 2001 a Short-eared Owl (IJW) was observed flying high over Cattle Hill. It lost height and then flew low north over the southern end of the golf course. On the morning of April 18, 2002 a Short-eared Owl (IJW) was seen flying in off the sea at Brighton Marina it was seen to land in the Sycamores just north of the entrance to Roedean school. What was probably the same bird was seen later in the afternoon flying north east over Cattle Hill (ITB) being mobbed by Gulls. Little Owl Athene noctua The Little Owl is not native to Britain but is now noted as a fairly common resident in Sussex. A pair is known to breed in the buildings of Bullstrode farm and they can sometimes be seen around the buildings of the farm at dusk. They can often be heard after dark as they hunt over the village of Ovingdean. Sometimes during the day they can be seen sat on posts around the woods near to Ovingdean Church. Nightjar Caprimulgus europaeus The Nightjar is noted as a fairly common summer visitor to Sussex that is rarely seen on migration. In recent years with increased observation at nearby Brighton Marina at least 1 Nightjar is recorded annually during spring sea-watching. Only one record exists for the Ovingdean/Roedean area. On April 26, 2000 a Nightjar (PD) was flushed on two occasions. On the second occasion it flew north from the scrub behind Roedean school Swift Apus apus The Swift is widespread in Sussex but declining. It's main breeding areas are the main urban areas. Large numbers are seen though during migration periods. In the Ovingdean/Roedean area it is mainly seen as a passage bird, but with a few feeding over the fields most summer evenings. Bad weather during the autumn migration can see large numbers gathered feeding over the fields. The earliest record for a spring arrival in this area is of 2 birds on April 223, 2004 (ITB) and the latest autumn record is September 18, 1990 (IJW). Wryneck Jynx torquilla The Wryneck is a Scarce passage migrant in Sussex. In the past it was a breeding bird but last bred near Hastings in 1944. There are only 2 records of Wryneck in the Ovingdean/Roedean area, but at nearby Sheepcote valley they are seen annually. On September 26, 2000 a Wryneck (ITB) was throughout the day feeding on the roadside verge along Greenways in Ovingdean. On August 31, 2001 a Wryneck (ITB) was flushed from amongst the crop along the back of Roedean school, it landed in the hedge giving good views before moving into the school grounds. There was also a brief glimpse of what was probably this bird in flight along the hedge on September 5, 2001 (ITB). Great Spotted Woodpecker Dendrocopos major The Great Spotted Woodpecker can be found throughout Sussex in areas where there are trees. In the period of August to November there is some form of migration that can turn up Great Spotted Woodpeckers in unusual habitat. On October 10, 1999 a pair of Great Spotted Woodpeckers (ITB) were seen in the Woods behind Ovingdean Church. On October 15, 2000 a Great Spotted Woodpecker (KBG) flew east over Roedean school. On October 6, 2001 a Great Spotted Woodpecker (IJW) was seen. On October14, 2001 a Great Spotted Woodpecker (IJW) was seen. On October 21, 2001 a Great Spotted Woodpecker (IJW) was seen. A Great Spotted Woodpecker was first noted on September 23, 2003 and remained in the woods behind Ovingdean Church into 2004 (ITB, ADW). 2004 produced what was probably a resident pair. Green Woodpecker Picus viridis The Green Woodpecker is noted as a fairly common resident in Sussex. They prefer to feed on open ground with mature woodland nearby to breed. They are recorded regularly and breed in the Ovingdean/Roedean area with most records probably relating to a pair and it's annual offspring. They are usually either to be found feeding in local gardens or the grounds of Roedean school. Wood Lark Lullula arborea The Wood Lark is a scarce resident and passage migrant in Sussex. The resident birds are usually found in areas of immature or felled plantations and gather at favored site to winter. Migratory birds are rarely recorded in spring but autumn birds are fairly regular and are presumed to relate to birds from the continent. On October 9, 1998 a flock of 7 Wood Larks (ITB) were seen at the southern end of Roedean Bottom feeding in stubble. These birds were still present on October 10, 1998 (ITB, KBG). On October 4, 1999 3 Wood Larks (KBG) flew north west over Roedean Bottom. On October 11, 1999 2 Wood Larks (ITB) flew west over Cattle Hill. On August 20, 2001 2 Wood Larks (ITB) flew west over the southern end of Roedean Bottom. Skylark Alauda arvensis The Skylark is noted as a common resident in Sussex with many also seen on passage and numbers boosted during the winter period. In the Ovingdean/Roedean area they are a fairly common breeding bird and are the main songster of the summer months. During the winter a large mobile flock can gather, they usually occur in whichever field has been left as set-aside but seem to prefer the fields to the east of Roedean school. All wintering records of over 200 birds are listed below. On December 31, 1994 a group of 220 Skylarks (SOS) were noted. On January 4, 1995 a group of 200 Skylarks (SOS) were noted. On December 3, 1995 a group of 210 Skylarks (SOS) were noted. On December 27, 1997 a group of 230 Skylarks were noted. On December 28, 2000 a group of 250 Skylarks (ITB) were present in the fields to the east of Roedean school. On December 29, 2001 a group of 459 Skylarks (ITB) were present in the fields to the east of Roedean school and are the largest flock yet noted in the area. Sand Martin Riparia riparia The Sand Martin is a fairly common summer visitor and common passage migrant to Sussex. They are only seen on passage in the Ovingdean/Roedean area. The earliest record is for March 30, 1999 (KBG) with the latest record for September 21, 2002 (ITB). Spring records usually only involve a few birds but in the autumn larger movements occur and the largest count of 435 on September 17, 2001 (ITB). Swallow Hirundo rustica The Swallow is a very common summer visitor and also a very common passage migrant. In the Ovingdean/Roedean area birds are seen throughout the summer months with the earliest record on March 24, 1999 (ITB). They breed in the farm buildings of Bullstrode farm and are regularly seen feeding over the fields during the summer. The autumn brings large coastal movements in suitable conditions but due to lack of time to count the passing birds the highest count is just 1850 flying over on September 17, 2001. The latest record for the area is on November 1, 2004 (ITB). Red-rumped Swallow Hirundo daurica The Red-rumped Swallow is a very rare vagrant to Sussex. On the afternoon of September 7, 1998 an immature Red-rumped Swallow (ITB) flew north through Roedean Bottom during a small movement of Swallows and House Martins. House Martin Delichon urbica The House Martin is a common summer visitor and very common passage migrant to Sussex. They breed under the open eaves of some of the buildings in the Roedean school complex. Around 40 birds are present throughout the summer months. Autumn sees the largest numbers with large movements coinciding with suitable weather conditions. The largest movement count was of 10,180 (ITB) birds all flying west on September 17, 2001. The earliest recorded in the area is of a single bird on April 4, 1999 (KBG) and the latest recorded are 4 birds on November 11, 1998 (ITB). Tawny Pipit Anthus campestris The Tawny Pipit is a very scarce visitor to Sussex with most recorded in the autumn period. The first and second records for Britain were from Sussex with the second record from near Rottingdean on September 24, 1862. Another bird was netted between Brighton and Rottingdean on September 30, 1864 and a record of 2 shot near Rottingdean on September 6, 1869. Another was netted near Brighton in October 1871, none of these early records count in the Ovingdean/Roedean area as no specific location is known. Three other records exist for the area. On September 6, 1981 a single Tawny Pipit (SOS) was noted. On October 3, 1982 a single Tawny Pipit (SOS) was noted. On September 17, 1986 a single Tawny Pipit (SOS) was noted. Tree Pipit Anthus trivialis The Tree Pipit is noted as a fairly common but local summer visitor and passage migrant. They are only seen on passage in the Ovingdean/Roedean area with all but 3 records for the autumn period. Meadow Pipit Anthus pratensis The Meadow Pipit is noted as a locally common resident, very common passage migrant and winter visitor in Sussex. There is at least one breeding pair in the Ovingdean/Roedean area. Large numbers are seen during passage and birds winter here on the stubble fields. The largest count for the area is of 700 birds present on Cattle Hill (ITB) on September 18, 2002. Yellow Wagtail Motacilla flava flavissima The Yellow Wagtail is noted as a fairly common but localized summer visitor and common passage migrant in Sussex. In the Ovingdean/Roedean area the Yellow Wagtail is a common passage migrant with most recorded in the autumn period. The largest count is of 80 with cattle on Cattle Hill on August 28, 1998 (ITB). The earliest recorded is April 21 1999 (ITB) and the latest recorded is October 15, 2000 (KBG). Blue Headed Wagtail Motacilla flava flava The only record of the nominate form of the Yellow Wagtail is of 3 birds on Cattle Hill on August 28,1998 (ITB). Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea The Grey Wagtail is noted as a fairly common resident, passage migrant and winter visitor in Sussex. In the Ovingdean/Roedean area it is a fairly common passage migrant. The earliest record being a single bird flying over on March 27, 2004 (ITB) and the latest recorded on November 9, 2003 (ITB). Pied Wagtail Motacilla alba yarrelli The Pied Wagtail is noted as a common resident, passage migrant and winter visitor in Sussex. They are generally seen in the Ovingdean/Roedean area from late summer until early spring. There is a large roost on Brighton Marina and reasonable numbers can gather prior to that roost. The largest counts are as follows On October 11, 1999 25 Pied Wagtails (ITB) were in Roedean Bottom. On November 10, 1999 30 Pied Wagtails (ITB) were in Roedean Bottom. On October 6, 2000 45 Pied Wagtails (KBG) were on Roedean school playing fields. On March 24, 2004 22 Pied Wagtails (ITB) were in Roedean Bottom. White Wagtail Motacilla alba alba White Wagtails appear in the Ovingdean/Roedean area during the autumn period. On October 22, 1993 a single White Wagtail (SOS) was recorded. On October 9, 1998 a single White Wagtail (ITB) was recorded. On April 18, 2001 a single White Wagtail (ITB) was recorded. On October 4, 2001 2 White Wagtails (IJW) were in the entrance to Roedean school. On October 6, 2001 3 White Wagtails (IJW) were in the entrance to Roedean school. On March 26, 2002 a single White Wagtail (ITB) was present on the field in the entrance to Roedean school and was still present on March 27, 2002 (ITB). On April 2, 2002 a single White Wagtail (ITB) was present on the field in the entrance to Roedean school and was still present on April 3, 2002 (ITB). On April 4, 2002 it was joined by a second bird (ITB). On April 18, 2002 a single White Wagtail (ITB) was present on the field in the entrance to Roedean school On March 24, 2004 2 White Wagtails (ITB) were present on the field in the entrance to Roedean School On April 2, 2004 a single White Wagtail (ITB) was present on the field in the entrance to Roedean school. Wren Troglodytes troglodytes The Wren is an abundant resident in Sussex and is a common resident throughout the Ovingdean/Roedean area. Dunnock Prunella modularis The Dunnock is an abundant resident in Sussex and is a common resident throughout the Ovingdean/Roedean area. Robin Erithacus rubecula The Robin is an abundant resident, passage migrant and winter visitor in Sussex and is a common resident in the Ovingdean/Roedean area. Their numbers are boosted in the autumn with passage birds some of which stay to over winter. On October 20, 2001 25 Robins (IJW) were recorded. Nightingale Luscinia megarhynchos The Nightingale is a fairly common summer visitor and very secretive passage migrant. 2 records exist for the Ovingdean/Roedean area. On August 5, 1999 2 Nightingales (ITB) were present in the bushes at the southern end of the golf course. On September 2, 2000 a single Nightingale (ITB) was present in the hedge behind Roedean school. Black Redstart Phoenicurus ochruros The Black Redstart is noted as a rare resident, fairly common passage migrant and scarce winter visitor in Sussex. In the Ovingdean/Roedean area they are fairly common passage migrants and scarce winter visitors. The peak count is of 12 birds present on March 24-25, 1999 (ITB). Redstart Phoenicurus phoenicurus The Redstart is a scarce summer visitor and fairly common passage migrant in Sussex. They are also a fairly common passage migrant in the Ovingdean/Roedean area with about 10 records on average per year. The earliest record is April 3, 2000 (ITB) and the latest record is of 3 birds on October 10, 2001 (IJW). Whinchat Saxicola rubetra The Whinchat is a rare summer visitor and fairly common passage migrant in Sussex. They are recorded annually on passage in the Ovingdean/Roedean area with the bulk of the records during the autumn period. The earliest record is of 1 on April 28, 2004 (ITB) and the latest record is of 2 on October 14, 2001 (IJW). A peak count of 23 in Roedean Bottom on September 12, 2002 (ITB). Stonechat Saxicola torquata The Stonechat is noted as a scarce resident and partial migrant in Sussex. They are a regular passage migrant during the autumn period with occasional birds over wintering. A few birds are recorded during the summer periods suggesting nearby breeding but this remains unconfirmed although family parties have been noted during the early autumn period. Wheatear Oenanthe oenanthe The Northern Wheatear is a scarce summer visitor and common passage migrant in Sussex and a common passage migrant in the Ovingdean/Roedean are where it is often the first sign of spring. The earliest record for the area is of a single bird on March 14, 2000 (ITB) and the latest recorded on November 15, 2000 (IJW). The largest count taken during the spring period was of 52 birds in the evening of April 5, 2000 (ITB) and the largest autumn count is of 24 birds on August 20, 1999 (ITB). Ring Ouzel Turdus torquatus The Ring Ouzel is a scarce spring passage migrant but fairly common although localized autumn passage migrant in Sussex and in the Ovingdean/Roedean area. An adult male present on April 29, 1999 (ITB,KBG) 3 birds including 1 adult male present on April 4, 2000 (ITB) and what was probably the same male also recorded on April 5, and 6, 2000. On October 20, 2001 11 birds were present (IJW) On October 28, 2001 5 birds were present (IJW) On October 29, 2001 just 2 birds were present (ITB) On March 17, 2002 an adult female was present in the eastern end of the hedge at Roedean (ITB). On November 3, 2004 a single male Ring Ouzel (ITB) was present in the south east corner of the Golf Course Blackbird Turdus merula The Blackbird is an abundant resident and winter visitor in Sussex. With birds being common residents in the Ovingdean/Roedean area. Fieldfare Turdus pilaris The Fieldfare is a common passage migrant and winter visitor to Sussex. They are recorded on passage in the Ovingdean/Roedean area and in very harsh winters they can occur in the village gardens. 15 Fieldfare flew over Roedean on October 12, 1997 (KBG) 1 Fieldfare in the grounds of Roedean school on April 6, 1999 (ITB, KGB) 2 Fieldfare in the Hedge at Roedean on November 11, 1999 (ITB) 2 Fieldfare in the Hedge at Roedean on March 3, 2000 (ITB) 1 Fieldfare in the bushes at Roedean on March 23, 2000 (ITB) 4 Fieldfare in the bushes at Roedean on October 29, 2001 (ITB) 1 Fieldfare in bushes in the southern corner of the golf course on November 5, 2002 (ITB). 1 Fieldfare in the Grounds of Roedean School on October 31, 2003 (ITB). 1 Fieldfare in the South east corner of the Golfcourse on November 12, 2003 (ITB). Redwing Turdus iliacus The Redwing is a very common passage migrant and winter visitor to the county of Sussex. They are also very common on passage in the Ovingdean/Roedean area with a few also recorded during the winter period. Passage takes place mainly at night and poor visabilty may bring the birds lower so their calls can be heard. Some daylight passage may take place and the highest count is an estimated count of over 5000 birds flying west on October 12, 1997 between 9:30 and 10:30 (KBG). Song Thrush Turdus philomelos A common resident, passage migrant and winter visitor in the county if Sussex. They are also a common resident in the gardens of both Ovingdean and Roedean. Birds are noted on passage in the hedge and bushes behind Roedean school and a few may winter here. Mistle Thrush Turdus viscivorus The Mistle Thrush is a common resident and partial migrant in Sussex. Only migrants are seen in the Ovingdean/Roedean area and are therefore scarce here. 1 Mistle Thrush behind Ovingdean church on October 9, 1998 (ITB) A single Mistle Thrush flew east on October 25, 1999 (KBG) An amazing 6 Mistle Thrushes were seen on October 14, 2001 (IJW) A single Mistle Thrush was seen on Cattle Hill on October 27, 2001 (ITB) 2 Mistle Thrush were seen in the hedge at Roedean (ITB) on April 27, 2002. A single Mistle Thrush was seen on Cattle Hill (ITB) on May 2, 2002. 2 Mistle Thrushes were seen on May 23, 2003 (ITB). 3 Mistle Thrushes were first seen around Ovingdean Church on October 31, 2003 (ITB) and remained into 2004 lingering throughout the year with a peak count of 5 on October 29, 2004. Grasshopper Warbler Locustella naevia The Grasshopper Warbler is a scarce and declining summer visitor but a common passage migrant in Sussex. Only 2 have been seen in the Ovingdean/Roedean area. A single bird was heard reeling but not seen near the Golf course on September 1, 1998 (ITB) A single bird flushed from overgrown set aside on September 17, 2000 (ITB) A single bird flushed from long grass behind Roedean School on August 27, 2003 (ITB). A single bird flushed from the edge of a field in Roedean Bottom on August 30, 2003 (ITB). A single birdshowed well in bush after flushing from long grass in Roedean Bottom on August 10, 2004 (ITB) Sedge Warbler Acrocephalus schoenobaenus The Sedge Warbler is a common summer visitor and very common passage migrant in Sussex and is recorded on passage, but only in the autumn period, in the Ovingdean/Roedean area. The peak count is of 5 birds present on September 3, 1999 (ITB) and also 5 birds on August 11, 2002 (ITB). The earliest record being of a single present on July 29, 2001 (ITB) and the latest record of a single bird on September 12, 1999 (KBG). Reed Warbler Acrocephalus scirpaceus The Reed Warbler is a common summer visitor and very common passage migrant in Sussex. The are recorded on passage, but only during the autumn period in the Ovingdean/Roedean area. The peak count is of 10 birds present on August 12, 1999 (ITB). The earliest record is of a singing bird on June 21, 2001 (ITB) and the latest record of a single bird on October 13, 2001 (IJW). Dartford Warbler Sylvia undata The Dartford Warbler is a scarce resident and partial migrant in Sussex with only one record for the Ovingdean/Roedean area. A first winter bird was seen at the eastern end of the hedge behind Roedean school on October 14, 2001 (IJW). Sardinian Warbler Sylvia melanocephala The Sardinian Warbler is a very rare vagrant. On April 20, 2000 a male Sardinian Warbler was seen well but briefly in the evening (ITB) but despite extensive searching could not be re found in heavy rain. Dawn the next day saw 4 observer searching and after an hour the Sardinian Warbler left it's roost and showed well for about an hour before moving south and into the school grounds. It was not seen again despite many observer looking. It was seen by just 9 observers and constituted the fifth record for the county. Lesser Whitethroat Sylvia curruca The Lesser Whitethroat is a common summer visitor and passage migrant in Sussex. It is also a fairly common passage migrant in the Ovingdean/Roedean are. The peak count is of 3 birds on August 31, 1999 (KBG) equalled with 3 birds on August 26, 2003 (ITB) and equalled again on September 26, 2004 (ITB). The earliest record is of a single bird on April 16, 2002 (ITB) with the latest record of a single bird on September 28, 2002 (ITB). Greater Whitethroat Sylvia communis The Whitethroat is a very common summer visitor and passage migrant. It is a very common passage migrant in the Ovingdean/Roedean area with a least four pairs remaining through the summer. The peak count is of 34 birds present on August 28, 2004 (ITB). The earliest record is of 1 bird present on April 15, 2003 (ITB) and the latest record of a single bird on September 21, 2002 (ITB). Garden Warbler Sylvia borin The Garden Warbler is a very common summer visitor and passage migrant in Sussex with only 1 or 2 seen annually in the Ovingdean/Roedean area. On August 8, 1998 a single Garden Warbler was in bushes near the Golf course (ITB) On September 12, 1999 a single Garden Warbler was seen (KBG) On October 12, 1999 a single Garden Warbler was seen (KBG) On October 25, 1999 a single Garden Warbler was seen (KBG) 2 birds were present in the Sycamores near to the entrance to Roedean school on April 26, 2000 with 1 still present the following day. On August 29, 2000 a single Garden Warbler was seen in the bushes (ITB) On May 3, 2002 2 Garden Warblers were present in the hedge at Roedean (ITB). On May 7, 2002 2 Garden Warblers were present in the sycamores near to the entrance to Roedean school (ITB). On August 24, 2002 a single Garden Warbler was present (ITB). On April 29, 2004 a single Garden Warbler was present (ITB). Blackcap Sylvia atricapilla The Blackcap is a very common summer visitor and passage migrant with some wintering birds in the county of Sussex. They are seen annually on passage in the Ovingdean/Roedean area. The peak count is of just 4 birds on October 12, 1999 (ITB, KBG). The earliest record being a single on April 1, 2003 (ITB) and the latest record being of a single male on November 15, 2002 (ITB). Yellow-browed Warbler Phylloscopus inornatus The Yellow-browed Warbler is a very scarce visitor with most recorded in the autumn in Sussex. A single record exists for the Ovingdean/Roedean area. A Yellow-browed Warbler was present in the woods behind Ovingdean church on October 16, 1984 (SOS). Pallas's Leaf Warbler Phylloscopus poregulus The Pallas's Warbler is a very scarce autumn vagrant in the county of Sussex A Pallas's Warbler (ITB) was present with Goldcrest on the afternoon of November 3, 2004. It prefered the north east corner of the woods behind Ovingdean Church. Wood Warbler Phylloscopus sibilatrix The Wood Warbler is a very scarce summer visitor and passage migrant in the county of Sussex. There is just a single record of 2 birds for the Ovingdean/Roedean area. 2 Wood Warblers were seen on May 10, 1985 (SOS) Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybitta The Chiffchaff is a very common summer visitor and passage migrant with small numbers wintering in Sussex. They are very common on passage in the Ovingdean/Roedean area. The peak count being of 34 birds on September 26, 2004 (ITB). The earliest record is of a single bird on March 13, 2000 and the latest record is of a single bird on November 18, 1998 (ITB). Willow Warbler Phylloscopus trochilus The Willow Warbler is an abundant summer visitor and passage migrant in Sussex with many seen on passage in the Ovingdean/Roedean area. The peak count is of 36 birds on August 10, 2004 (ITB). The earliest record is of a single bird on March 29, 2002 (ITB) and the latest record is of a single bird on September 25, 2002 (ITB). Goldcrest Regulus regulus The Goldcrest is a very common resident, passage migrant and winter visitor in the county of Sussex. Passage birds are recorded annually in the Ovingdean/Roedean area. The peak count is of 33 birds present on October 12, 1999 (ITB, KBG). The earliest record is for a single bird on March 6, 2004 (ITB). The latest record is of 2 birds present on November 21, 1999 (ITB) and November 21, 2003 (ITB). Firecrest Regulus ignicapillus The Firecrest is a rare breeding bird and scarce passage migrant with some wintering in the county of Sussex. They are a scarce passage migrant in the Ovingdean/Roedean area. A single bird was seen on October 18, 1994 (IJW) A single bird was seen on October 16, 1996 (IJW) A female was seen in the hedge on September 3, 1999 (ITB) A single bird was seen on March 22, 2000 (ITB) A single bird was seen on April 22, 2000 (ITB) A male was present on September 22, 2001 (IJW) A single bird was seen on October 28, 2001 (IJW) A female was present in the hedge at Roedean on March 12, 2002 (ITB). A male was present in the hedge at Roedean on March 18, 2002 (ITB). 3 birds were present on March 19, 2002 (IJW). 3 birds that consisted of 2 males and a single female were present in the hedge at Roedean on March 31, 2002 (ITB). 2 birds were seen in the hedge behind Roedean School on September 19, 2003 (ITB). 2 birds in the hedge behind Roedean School from April 1 to April 4, 2004 (ITB) with a single still present on April 6, 2004 A single bird present from October 29 to November 2, 2004 (ITB) Spotted Flycatcher Muscicapa striata The Spotted Flycatcher is a fairly common summer visitor and passage migrant in the county of Sussex. They are scarce passage migrants in the Ovingdean/Roedean area. On September 2, 1998 a Spotted Flycatcher was seen in bushes near the Golf course (ITB) On May 14, 1999 a Spotted Flycatcher was seen in the hedge (ITB) On May 19, 1999 2 Spotted Flycatchers were seen in the hedge (ITB) On May 25, 1999 a Spotted Flycatcher was seen in the hedge (ITB) On June 9, 1999 a Spotted Flycatcher was seen singing in the hedge(ITB) On August 31, 1999 2 Spotted Flycatchers were seen in trees in the Grounds of Roedean school (KBG) On August 27, 2001 3 Spotted Flycatchers were seen (ITB) with one still present on 28, (ITB). On May 15, 2002 a single Spotted Flycatcher was in the bushes near the golf course (ITB). On July 31, 2002 a single Spotted Flycatcher was present (ITB) and presumed still present on September 1, 2002 (ITB). On September 11, 2002 4 Spotted Flycatchers were present in the sycamores near to the entrance of Roedean school (ITB). On August 14, 2003 a Spotted Flycatcher was seen (ITB). On September 9, 2003 2 Spotted Flycatchers were seen (ITB). On September 6, 2003 a Spotted Flycatcher was seen (ITB). On September 7, 2003 5 Spotted Flycatchers were seen (ITB). On September 17, 2003 a Spotted Flycatcher was seen (ITB). On October 2, 2003 a Spotted Flycatcher was seen (ITB). On May 1, 2004 2 Spotted Flycatchers were seen (ITB). On May 10, 2004 a Spotted Flycatcher was seen (ITB). On May 13, 2004 a Spotted Flycatcher was seen (ITB). Red-breasted Flycatcher Ficedula parva The red-breasted Flycatcher is a rare autumn vagrant in Sussex with a single record for the Ovingdean/Roedean area. On September 16, 2002 a first winter Red-breasted Flycatcher was seen (ITB) well but briefly in the hedge behind Roedean school and could not be relocated despite extensive searching. It probable flew into the school grounds. Pied Flycatcher Ficedula hypoleuca The Pied Flycatcher is a scarce passage migrant that is more numerous in autumn than spring in Sussex and has bred in the past. They are a scarce passage migrant in the Ovingdean/Roedean area. A female type was seen in the hedge on September 6, 1999 (ITB) and remained until 9, (ITB) A female type was seen in the hedge on May 8, 2000 (ITB) An adult male was seen in the sycamores by the entrance to Roedean school on May 9, 2000 (ITB) A female type was seen in the hedge on August 29, 2001 (ITB) A single female type was present on August 11, 2002 (ITB). A single female type was present on August 16, 2002 (ITB). A single female type was present on August 23, 2002 (ITB). A single female type was present on August 29, 2002 (ITB). 2 female types were present on September 11, 2002 (ITB). A single female type was present on September 12, 2002 (ITB) and presumed still present on September 13, 2002 (ITB). A single femle type was present on April 26, 2003 (ITB) An adult male was present on April 28, 2003 (ITB). 2 were present on August 6, 2003 (ITB) 2 different individuals were present on August 7, 2003 (ITB). 6 were present on August 8, 2003 (ITB) the largest count at this site. A single was present on August 12, 2003 (ITB). A single was present on August 26, 2003 (ITB). A single was present on September 2, 2003 (ITB). A single was present on September 19, 2003 (ITB). A single was present on September 21, 2003 (ITB). A single was present on April 28, 2004 (ITB) Long-tailed Tit Aegithalos caudatus The Long-tailed Tit is a very common resident in Sussex but they are scarce in the Ovingdean/Roedean area. A group of 10 were seen on September 27 1998 (ITB) these probably lingered with 4 seen on November 22 (ITB) and 10 seen on November 29 (ITB). A group of 6 were seen on November 10, 1999 (ITB) 3 were seen on March 11, 2000 (ITB) 3 were seen on March 12, 2001 (IJW) 2 were seen on March 31, 2001 (ITB) 2 were seen in Greenways Bottom on March 26 2003 (ITB). 10 were seen at the south east end of the Golf course on October 2, 2003 (ITB). 14 were seen on September 26, 2004 (ITB) in the woods behind Ovingdean Church 5 were seen on November 4 and again on November 7, 2004 (ITB) in the woods behind Ovingdean Church Marsh Tit Poecile palustris The Marsh Tit is a common resident in Sussex but is fairly non migratory. Therefore they are very rare at coastal sites. 1 record exists for the Ovingdean/Roedean area. On September 13, 1998 a Marsh Tit was seen and heard calling in the bushes near to the golf course (ITB). Blue Tit Cyanistes caeruleus The Blue Tit is an abundant resident in Sussex and the Ovingdean/Roedean area. Great Tit Parus major The Great Tit is an abundant resident in Sussex and the Ovingdean/Roedean area. Jay Garrulus glandarius The Jay is a very common resident, passage migrant and winter visitor in Sussex. They are fairly scarce migrants in the Ovingdean/Roedean area. On October 4, 2000 a single Jay was seen (KBG) On March 10, 2001 2 birds were seen (ITB) On October 27, 2001 a single bird was seen (ITB) On April 4, 2002 a single bird was seen (ITB). On November 3, 2002 a single bird was seen (ITB). On November 17, 2002 a single bird was seen in the woods behind Ovingdean church (ITB). On September 14, 2003 2 flew over the woods behind Ovingdean Church (ITB). On April 28, 2004 a single bird was seen (ITB) On September 26, 2004 a single bird was in the wood behind Ovingdean Church (ITB) Magpie Pica pica The Magpie is a very common resident in Sussex and in the Ovingdean/Roedean area with a peak count of 20 birds on February 12, 1994 (SOS) Jackdaw Corvus monedula The Jackdaw is a very common resident in the County of Sussex. It is also fairly common in the Ovingdean/Roedean area with a peak count of 40 birds on July 19, 2001 (ITB). Rook Corvus frugilegus The Rook is a very common resident in the county of Sussex. They used to be fairly scarce in the Ovingdean/Roedean area but are now fairly common with a peak count of 30 Birds seen on July 14, 2001 and now breed in the woods behind Ovingdean Church with 8 occupied nest in 2004 Carrion Crow Corvus corone The Carrion Crow is a very common resident in the county of Sussex and in the Ovingdean/Roedean area. The peak count for the area is of 325 birds present on July 14, 2001. Raven Corvus corax The Raven was originally a breeding bird in the county but ceased inland by 1880 and ceased at the coast 15 years later. A few records during the winter periods made the Raven a rare visitor but in the last few years they have returned in numbers and once again breed with possibly 3 pairs. There are 2 records in the Ovingdean/Roedean area. On September 2, 2002 a single Raven (ITB) flew north up through Greenways Bottom over Ovingdean Church. It landed for 5 minutes in the Horse Paddock before flying low over Mount Pleasent. On September 11, 2002 a Raven (IJW) was observed. On March 17, 2004 a single Raven flew west over Bullstrode Farm Starling Sturnus vulgaris The Starling is a very common resident, passage migrant and winter visitor in the county of Sussex. The are common throughout the year in the Ovingdean/Roedean area with the largest numbers seen on the fields in the early autumn with large gatherings of noisy juveniles. The largest number seen flying over are during the winter months when thousands fly west over the area to roost on the derelict west pier sometimes large numbers stop in pre-roost gatherings on Roedean school. House Sparrow Passer domesticus The House Sparrow is an abundant resident in the county of Sussex. They are a common resident in both of the villages of Ovingdean and Roedean but are now very scarce on the fields between the 2 villages with modern farming not providing the food source it once did. Chaffinch Fringilla coelebs The Chaffinch is an abundant resident, passage migrant and winter visitor in the county of Sussex. They are a fairly common passage migrant in the Ovingdean/Roedean area with large numbers seen during the autumn. The peak count is of 220 flying west in a 20 minute period on October 14, 2000 (KBG). Brambling Fringilla montifringilla The Brambling is a fairly common winter visitor and passage migrant in the county of Sussex. The are a scarce passage migrant in the Ovingdean/Roedean area . A single bird was seen on October 22, 1993 (SOS) A single bird was seen on October 16, 1996 (IJW) A single bird was seen flying west on March 25, 1999 (ADW) An adult male flew west over Cattle Hill on October 11, 1999 (ITB) 3 birds were seen on October 14, 2000 (KBG) A single bird flew east on October 20, 2000 (KBG) 2 birds flew east on October 13, 2001 (IJW) 2 Birds flew east over Greenways Bottom on November 5, 2001 (ITB) 10 birds in the trees around Ovingdean Church on November 4, 2003 (ITB) A single bird flew over on November 7, 2003 (ITB). 2 birds flew over on November 12, 2003 (ITB). A single bird flew over on November 16, 2003 (ITB). A single bird flew over on November 7, 2004 (ITB) Greenfinch Carduelis chloris The Greenfinch is a very common resident, passage migrant and winter visitor to the county of Sussex and the Ovingdean/Roedean area. Goldfinch Carduelis carduelis The Goldfinch is a common resident and passage migrant in Sussex and in the Ovingdean/Roedean area. The peak count being of 300 birds flying over on October 13, 2001 (IJW). Siskin Carduelis spinus The Siskin is a common winter visitor and passage migrant in Sussex. They are common on passage during the autumn period in the Ovingdean/Roedean area with the peak count of 20 flying over on October 13, 2001 (IJW) Linnet Carduellis cannabina The Linnet is a very common resident and partial migrant in Sussex. In the Ovingdean/Roedean area they are a common resident and winter visitor. The peak count being of 140 birds in Roedean Bottom on August 22, 2002 (ITB). Lesser Redpoll Carduelis flammea cabaret The Lesser Redpoll is a fairly common breeding bird, passage migrant and winter visitor in the county of Sussex. In the Ovingdean/Roedean area they a fairly common on autumn passage. The peak count is of 80 flying over on October 13, 2001 (IJW). Crossbill Loxia curvirostra A scarce winter visitor and passage migrant in Sussex that can occur in large numbers in irruption years. On August 31, 2002 a flock of 5 Crossbills flew over Cattle Hill (ITB). On September 1, 2002 a flock of 3 Crossbills flew over Cattle Hill (ITB). On August 24, 2003 a flock of 5 Crossbills flew over Cattle Hill (ITB). On September 14, 2003 2 Crossbills flew over Roedean Bottom (ITB). Bullfinch Pyrrhula pyrrhula The Bullfinch is a very common resident in Sussex but very scarce around the Brighton Area. There are only 2 records from the Ovingdean/Roedean area. On March 25, 1999 a male was seen (IJW) On September 4, 2000 a male flew west over Roedean school (ITB). Yellowhammer Emberiza citrinella The Yellowhammer is a very common resident in Sussex but is surprisingly scarce in the Ovingdean/Roedean area given the suitable habitat. Recent records may point to a breeding pair on the golf course sometimes straying to the bushes near the southern end. Rustic Bunting Emberiza rustica The Rustic Bunting is a very rare vagrant in the County of Sussex. A Rustic Bunting was trapped near to the old Naptha works, close to where Roedean school now stands, on October 23, 1867 and was the first British record. It is in the Booth bird museum (BoMNH 204074). Little Bunting Emberiza pusilla The Little Bunting is a very rare vagrant in the county of Sussex. A Little Bunting was netted near to the old Naptha works, close to where Roedean school now stands, on November 2, 1864 and was the first British record. It is in the Booth bird museum (BoMNH 207569). Reed Bunting Emberiza schoeniclus The Reed Bunting is a common resident, passage migrant and winter visitor to the county of Sussex. They are seen on passage in the Ovingdean/Roedean area with all but three records coming from the autumn period. The peak count is of 11 birds all flying east on October 13, 2001 (IJW). Corn Bunting Emberiza calandra The Corn Bunting is a fairly common but declining resident in the county of Sussex. They are a fairly common resident and winter visitor to the Ovingdean/Roedean area. With a peak count of 50 birds on April 12, 1993 (SOS). Many thanks are owed to people that have helped with a contributions of records. Records received from: ITB Ian Barnard KBG Kris Gillam SOS Sussex Ornithological Society database ADW Andrew Whitcomb IJW Ian Whitcomb PD Phil Dunk
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The Birds Of Ovingdean/Roedean

Records to the end of 2004.

Northern Fulmar
Fulmarus glacialis
The Northern Fulmar is a common sight along this stretch of coastline with several pairs breeding along the cliffs between the Marina and Saltdean. This number is boosted in the winter with many birds lingering and regularly being seen in the beach roost. Birds also pass in good numbers during the Spring and Autumn migration but despite these birds occurring only a few hundred yards from Roedean this remains a rarity at this site with only one record previous to 2002 when there was a flurry of records. This species is rare anywhere inland in Sussex with only ten inland records.

On April 18, 1999 a Northern Fulmar (ITB) flew North along the field edge at the Western end of Roedean School for about 800 yards before turning South and returning out to sea
On April 16, 2002 a Northern Fulmar (ITB) was seen.
On May 2, 2002 a Northern Fulmar (ITB) was seen flying over Roedean Bottom.
On June 15, 2002 a Northern Fulmar (ITB) was seen flying over Roedean Bottom.
On August 12, 2002 a Northern Fulmar (ITB) was seen flying over the southern end of Roedean Bottom.

Northern Gannet
Sula bassana
The Northern Gannet is a regular passage bird along our coast with many birds lingering and feeding in suitable conditions. This bird remains a scarcity anywhere inland although an individual has been noted roosting on a house in Seaford and presumably the same bird has been seen over the Kemptown area of Brighton. Only one record exists of this species at this site.

On December 24, 2001 a Northern Gannet (ITB) was observed soaring with Gulls over the under cliff walk in the area of Ovingdean Café. The bird then followed a few Gulls across the A259 and soared over the field to the East of Roedean school for about three minutes before heading out to sea.
On September 1, 2004 one flew west over Cattle Hill (ITB)

Cormorant
Phalacrocorax carbo
The Great Cormorant is regular in Sussex all along the coast and at most inland waters. There is also a large inland roost on the river Adur. But birds have only been recorded on a few occasions before 2002 flying over the Roedean/Ovingdean area. A flurry of records for 2002 including an amazing flock of 120 birds.

On September 11, 1998 four Cormorants (ITB) flew West over Ovingdean farm in a tight group and continued towards Sheepcote Valley.
On August 31, 1999 a group of three birds flew East (KBG).
On November 7, 1999 a single Cormorant (ITB) flew West over Roedean before heading out to sea.
On February 18, 2002 a party of six Cormorants (ITB) flew East over Cattle Hill continuing East over the village of Ovingdean.
On January 1, 2002 an amazing flock of 120 Cormorants was seen flying west over Roedean school (ITB)
On February 18, 2002 a group of 6 Cormorants was seen flying east over Roedean school (ITB)
On March 18, 2002 a single bird flew east over Cattle Hill (ITB)
On March 30, 2002 a group of 16 Cormorants flew east over Roedean school (ITB, IJW)
On May 7, 2002 a single bird flew north over Roedean school (ITB)
On May 9, 2002 a single bird flew east over Roedean school (ITB)
On June 11, 2002 a group of 5 Cormorants flew west over Roedean school (ITB)
On July 18, 2002 a single bird flew north east over Bullstrode Farm (ITB)
On September 25, 2002 an immature flew north east over Roedean school (ITB)
On September 14, 2003 2 birds flew east over Cattle Hiil (ITB)

Night Heron
Nycticorax nycticorax
The Night Heron has occurred 29 times in Sussex prior to the end of 2001. There is a single record of a first summer bird in the Roedean/Ovingdean area.

On May 12, 2000 a first summer Night Heron (ITB) that had been present at Brighton Marina since about 5.30 am and was initially found by KBG and IJW flew East from the Marina and flew low calling over Roedean school. It then flew along the line of the hedge gaining height and circled over Ovingdean being mobbed by Gulls. It dropped into trees in a garden in Beacon Hill and remained there until 21.05 when it flew North West.

Cattle Egret
Bubulcus ibis
The Cattle Egret has been recorded annually in Sussex for the last few years, previously being a very rare vagrant. This recent phenomenon could be the same bird returning to Sussex to winter or they could all relate to different individuals. One has been recorded in the Roedean/Ovingdean area.

On January 24, 1999 a Cattle Egret was reported by a local dog walker. News was released of the birds presence on January 26, 1999 and many birders enjoyed close views of the bird as it remained associating with the cattle close to the road and roosting in trees behind the church. The bird remained until May 10, 1999 during it's stay it visited many parts of the area including the grounds of Roedean School and on occasions could be viewed from Brighton Marina.

Grey Heron
Ardea cinerea
The Grey Heron was a regular visitor to Roedean/Ovingdean in winter. Birds that feed along the shoreline roost in fields adjacent to Greenways, Ovingdean and in the trees behind the Church. The peak count being of seven birds (ITB) roosting in the winter period 1999/2000. Single birds have also been noted in the ploughed field in Roedean Bottom. Although in recent years they have become scarce with only 2 sightings of single birdds in 2003.

Mute Swan
Cygnus olor
Mute Swan is a common bird in Sussex with many wintering in the river valleys to the East and West of Brighton. A few are seen on the Brighton coast in winter mainly at The Marina and further west with a large gathering usually present at Southwick.

On September 17, 1998 a group of three birds (KBG) flew North East over Roedean.
On November 7, 1998 a family group of Mute Swans (ITB) consisting of two adults and three juveniles flew West over Roedean.
On September 18, 2002 a Mute Swan flew north through Roedean Bottom and into Woodingdean.

White-Fronted Goose
Anser albifrons
White-Fronted Geese are seen almost annually passing Brighton Marina and are annual elsewhere in Sussex. Only one record exists for the area.

On December 3, 1998 a flock of 27 Whitefronts (KBG) flew North East over Roedean Bottom at 9:30. They were later seen in the Cuckmere valley.

Greylag Goose
Anser anser
The Greylag Goose is a fairly common introduced resident and winter visitor. It is also noted a scarce passage migrant in the county of Sussex.

On March 24, 2002 2 Greylags flew over Roedean (KBG).

Bean Goose
Anser fabalis
The Bean Goose is a rare vagrant to Sussex with most records relating to the subspecies rossicus or Tundra Bean Goose. A record exists for this Roedean/Ovingdean but no details to subspecies are on record.

On January 27, 1963 a group of four Bean Geese (SOS) were seen on a field between Ovingdean and Roedean they remained until January 29, 1963. They were then seen again but with five individuals from February 4, 1963 to February 6, 1963.

Canada Goose
Branta Canadensis
Canada Goose is a common site throughout Sussex but only 3 records exist for the area.

On March 25, 1997 a Flock of 7 Canada Geese (KBG) flew North East over Roedean Bottom.
On April 14, 2002 a flock of 3 Canada Geese flew north east over Roedean school (ITB).
On March 27, 2004 a flock of 4 flew north east over Roedean School (ITB)

Dark-bellied Brent Goose
Branta bernicla
The Dark bellied Brent Goose is a very common winter visitor to coastal harbours in Sussex and a common passage migrant along the coast.

On April 7, 2002 2 birds flew north up through Greenways Bottom (ITB).
On October 29, 2004 a flock of 6 birds flew west over Cattle Hill (ITB)

Mallard
Anas platyrhynchos
The Mallard is a common resident and winter visitor in the county of Sussex. Only one record exists of 2 birds in the Ovingdean/Roedean area.

A pair of Mallard circled around the southern end of Roedean Bottom (ITB) on April 16, 2002 before seeming to land in a swimming pool in a Roedean garden.

Red Kite
Milvus milvus
The Red Kite is rare visitor throughout the year and formerly bred in the county of Sussex. There is just a single record for the Ovingdean/Roedean area.

On March 25, 2002 a single wing tagged Red Kite flew low east over Cattle Hill (IJW).

Marsh Harrier
Circus aeruginosus
The Marsh Harrier is a scarce passage migrant and rare winter visitor in the county of Sussex. With just 2 records, both in 2002, in the Ovingdean/Roedean area.

On July 14, 2002 a Marsh Harrier flew west over Cattle Hill (ITB, IJW).
On August 11, 2002 a Marsh Harrier (ITB) circled over Cattle Hill gaining height before heading south.

Hen Harrier
Circus cyaneus
The Hen Harrier is noted as a scarce but regular winter visitor and passage migrant in Sussex. Only one record exists for the Roedean/Ovingdean area.

On April 24, 2003 an adult male Hen Harrier flew north through Greenways Bottom (ITB).

Montagu's Harrier
Circus pygargus
Montagu's Harrier is a scarce summer visitor to Sussex with most individuals being seen on passage. A few birds remain in suitable areas of the Sussex downs but breeding has not been recorded in the county since 1962. There is only one record for Roedean/Ovingdean.

On August 29, 2001 a juvenile (KBG) flew East at 17:10 being mobbed by Carrion Crows. The bird was observed from the Café at Roedean golf course and was first seen along Brighton Seafront at 17:00 and followed by the observer on a push bike.

Common Buzzard
Buteo buteo
The Buzzard is becoming a more common site throughout most of Sussex.

A Common Buzzard (IJW) flew over Roedean on September 22, 2001.
On March 24, 2002 a group of 3 Common Buzzards flew high east (IJW, KBG) followed by a single bird (IJW, KBG)
On August 15, 2003 a Common Buzzard flew west over Roedean School at 17:00 (ITB)

Sparrowhawk
Accipiter nisus
The Sparrowhawk is a regular sight in Roedean/Ovingdean. They are seen roosting in the trees behind the church, in the bushes around the school or hunting over the fields. They are also regularly seen hunting in the gardens of Ovingdean. Both Males and Females are noted throughout the year. Breeding has not been noted in the area but they are presumed to breed close by with immature birds seen annually.

Northern Goshawk
Accipiter gentiles
The Goshawk is a scarce and very secretive bird in Sussex and is surrounded in much secrecy.

A Female Goshawk (ADW) flew North over Bulstrode farm on May 6, 1995.
One was recorded over Cattle Hill behind Roedean school and was viewed from the West arm of Brighton Marina on April 2, 2000 (ITB, IJW).
A female Goshawk was seen flying north over Cattle Hill on March 30, 2002 (ITB).

Kestrel
Falco tinnunculus
The Kestrel is seen daily with four or more birds seen regularly. They hunt over the whole area of Roedean/Ovingdean. They are also a regular breeder with a pair nesting in the woods behind the church and another pair nesting nearby on the cliffs.

Hobby
Falco subbuteo
The Hobby is a regular passage bird to Roedean/Ovingdean with birds being recorded in both Spring and Autumn although only one has been seen to linger, a juvenile on October 15, 1999 (KBG).

Peregrine Falcon
Falco peregrinus
Peregrine Falcons breed locally in Brighton to the West and Lewes to the East. They are seen regularly hunting along the coast but relatively few records exist for Roedean/Ovingdean.

One recorded on January 19, 1988 (SOS).
A large female recorded flying over with prey on September 10, 1994 (IJW).
One recorded on April 22, 1995 (PJW).
One recorded on March 25, 1999 (SOS).
A female sat in a ploughed field near the golf course on September 9, 1999 (ITB).
One recorded flying West at high altitude on April 7, 2000 (ITB).
An immature female over Roedean on October 3, 2001 (IJW).
One flew west over Roedean Bottom on March 24, 2002 (ITB).
One flew east over Roedean school on March 30, 2002 (ITB).
One was seen on August 21, 2002 (ITB).
One was seen on September 2, 2002 (ITB).
One was seen on September 18, 2003 (ITB).
One was seen on September 16, 2004 (ITB).

Merlin
Falco columbarius
A winter visitor to Sussex but scarce in Roedean/Ovingdean.

One recorded flying West on July 3, 1994 (SOS).
One recorded flying North along the West side of Greenways Bottom, Ovingdean on August 30, 1998 (ITB).
One recorded flying over Cattle Hill on December 28, 2000 (KBG).
One recorded flying East over Cattle Hill on March 17, 2001 (ITB).
One recorded on March 26, 2002 (ITB).
2 were seen on April 2, 2002 one of which was seen to fly strongly out to sea (ITB)
One flew over Ovingdean (ITB) on March 18, 2004

Red-Legged Partridge
Alectoris rufa
The red legged Partridge is scarce in this part of Sussex and still remains a much sought after tick in nearby Sheepcote Valley.

An adult was recorded in the grounds of Roedean school on March 21, 1998 (ITB).
One was recorded on April 8, 1999 (KBG).
An adult was recorded in the field behind Roedean school on March 17, 2000 (ITB) and was later joined by a second adult on March 20, 2000 (ITB). What is presumed to be these two birds have be seen regularly in the Roedean/Ovingdean area up to the 2002 first winter period. They were last recorded with another bird on May 7, 2002.
On March 18, 2004 one was seen on Cattle Hill (ITB)
On April 14, 2004 three were seen on Cattle Hill (ITB)
On April 16, 2004 on was seen

Grey Partridge
Perdix perdix
The Grey Partridge bred in previous years in Sheepcote Valley but is no longer present. Earlier records suggest they were quite common in the Roedean/Ovingdean area but are now seen less frequently.

On October 15, 1994 10 birds were present (SOS).
On August 8, 1996 12 Birds were present (IJW).
On September 2, 1998 one was heard calling in Roedean Bottom (ITB).
On September 15, 1998 a Male was seen in Greenways Bottom (ITB).
On April 30, 1999 a Female was seen in Roedean Bottom (ITB).
On June 25, 1999 2 were seen in Roedean Bottom (ITB).
On October 8, 1999 3 were seen in Roedean Bottom (KBG).
On December 28, 2000 3 birds flushed from a set aside field to the East of Roedean School (ITB).
On July 19, 2001 1 Bird was seen in Roedean Bottom (ITB).
On March 12, 2002 2 birds were seen (ITB).
On April 21, 2002 2 birds were seen (IJW).
On April 26 a single bird was seen (ITB).

Quail
Coturnix cotuurnix
Quail are annually heard calling from crop fields along the Downs. 4 records exist for the area with 3 taken from the Sussex database and it is not known if any of the birds were seen in those 3 records.

One was reported on May 27, 1982 (SOS).
One was reported on October 7, 1982 (SOS).
One was reported on May 30, 1991 (SOS).
On April 5, 2002 a Quail was flushed from set aside on Cattle Hill but could not be relocated despite extensive searching (ITB).

Common Pheasant
Phasianus colchicus
A common bird throughout Sussex but sightings remained very scare from the Roedean/Ovingdean area but the species is now regular

On September 23 1998 an adult male was seen near the woods behind Ovingdean church (ITB).
On October 20, 2001 an adult male was seen near the woods behind Ovingdean woods (IJW). It was joined by a second dark green phase bird on October 28, 2001 (IJW). Both birds were seen again on October 29, 2001 near the hedge behind Roedean School (ITB), and again in the school grounds on November 2, 2001 (ITB).These 2 birds were again seen in the first winter period of 2002 with the last record being April 22, 2002 (ITB).
On November 15, 2002 a pheasant was heard calling near Bullstrode farm (ITB).
During 2003 Pheasants were regularly seen or heard with a peak count 4 birds with 3 males and 1 female at least present.

Common Crane
Grus grus
The Common Crane is a rare visitor to the county of Sussex, and has been recorded twice in the Ovingdean/Roedean area with both sightings attributed to the same lucky observer.

1 Flew North North West in off the sea and through Greenways Bottom on November 7, 2000 (IJW).
An adult Common Crane was on view for 15 minutes between 13:55 and 14:10 as it flew north through Roedean Bottom on March 28, 2002 (IJW).

Oystercatcher
Haematopus ostralegus
A scarce breeding bird in Sussex having once become extinct as a breeding bird. But a common winter visitor to the Sussex shorelines. Birds tend to congregate to roost along the beach at Ovingdean but only 2 records exist for the Roedean/Ovingdean area.

On April 27, 2000 a single Oystercatcher (ITB) was feeding on the short turf by the entrance to Roedean School.
On May 3, 2000 2 Oystercatchers (ITB) were feeding on the short turf by the entrance to Roedean School.

Ringed Plover
Charadrius hiaticula
The Ringed Plover is noted as a fairly common breeder, pasage migrant and winter visitor in the county of Sussex. Only one record exists for the Roedean/Ovingdean area.

On November 8, 2003 2 Ringed Plovers flew west calling over Cattle Hill (ITB).

Northern Lapwing
Vanellus vanellus
A declining breeding bird in Sussex but a very common winter visitor with birds favoring the flooded areas of the river valleys.

On September 1, 1998 one was heard calling but not seen (ITB) as it flew over the Cattle Hill area.
On October 13, 1999 one was seen independently by 2 observers (ITB, KBG) on Cattle Hill.
On November 5, 1999 one was seen in Greenways Bottom (ITB).
On December 28, 2000 5 birds were feeding in the set-aside field to the East of Roedean School.
On September 29, 2001 2 birds flew South East (IJW).

Golden Plover
Pluvialis apricaria
The Golden Plover is a common winter visitor to suitable areas of Sussex, locally mainly in the Lewes Brooks and Pevensey areas. Only 4 records exist for the area.

On October 15, 2000 the call of a Golden Plover (KBG) was heard as it flew over but was not seen.
On December 28, 2000 a Golden Plover (ITB) flew South West calling over Cattle Hill.
On October 14, 2001 a Golden Plover (IJW) flew North calling.
On September 23, 2003 a Golden Plover flew west calling (ITB).

Grey Plover
Pluvialis squatarola
The Grey Plover winters along the coast in Sussex with the main concentrations being in Chichester and Pagham harbours. There are only 2 records for the Roedean/Ovingdean area but the first record is of a heard only individual.

On October 11, 1999 a Grey Plover (KBG) was heard calling as it flew over but was not seen.
On November 12, 2003 a Grey Plover (ITB) circled over Cattle Hill calling before flying off west.

Dotterel
Charadrius morinellus
The Dotterel is a very scarce passage migrant in Sussex. It is seen annually in nearby fields on the downs. The only record for the area is the second earliest occurrence in Sussex falling second to 1 recorded near Seaford on March 22, 1853. There has also been a record of a bird that wintered at Rye in 1992.

On April 3, 2000 a Dotterel flew in of the sea calling at 18:18 and continued flying North calling constantly as it went.

Snipe
Gallinago gallinago
The Snipe is a common breeding bird and common winter visitor to Sussex. The lack of records for the area is probably related to the lack of observation during the suitable period for records to occur.

On October 13, 2001 a single Snipe (IJW) flew East.
On October 27, 2001 a single Snipe (ITB) flew East.

Bar-Tailed Godwit
Limosa lapponica
The Bar-Tailed Godwit is a scarce Winter visitor with most being restricted to Chichester harbour but is a common passage bird with the largest movements being noted in spring from sea-watching sites.

On April 27, 2000 a flock of 50 birds (ITB) deviated from their passage along the coast and flew East over the Southern end of Greenways Bottom.
On May 7, 2002 a flock of 28 birds (ITB) flew north east over Cattle Hill. This flock also held a single Whimbrel.

Black-tailed Godwit
Limosa limosa
The Black-tailed Godwit is a common winter visitor and passage migrant to Sussex also small numbers may summer.

On September 9, 2003 a flock of 22 Black-tailed Godwits flew east over Cattle Hill (ITB). These birds were also seen from nearby Whitehawk Hill.

Whimbrel
Numenius phaeopus
The Whimbrel is a common passage bird in Sussex with the main passage being in the spring. A few birds may over-winter.

On April 27, 2000 a flock of 8 Whimbrel )ITB) flew East over the southern end of Roedean Bottom.
On April 29, 2000 2 Whimbrel (ITB) flew east over the southern end of Roedean Bottom.
On May 16, 2000 a single Whimbrel (ITB) flew east.
On September 5, 2001 3 Whimbrel (ITB) flew south over Cattle Hill with a flock of 17 Curlew.
On May 7, 2002 a Whimbrel (ITB) flew north east over Cattle Hill with a flock of Bar-tailed Godwits.
On August 11, 2002 a Whimbrel flew south west over Bullstrode farm calling (ITB).
On April 11, 2003 2 Whimbrel were in the field to the east of Roedean School (ITB).
On April 18, 2003 a Whimbrel was in a field in Greenways bottom(ITB). It remained till the 21st and was joined by a second bird on the 19th.
On May 14, 2003 7 Whimbrel flew eeast over Cattle Hill (ITB).

Curlew
Numenius arquata
The Curlew is a common passage migrant and winter visitor to Sussex. It used to be a very scarce breeder but is now sadly extinct as a breeding bird.

On November 18,1998 a single Curlew (ITB) was seen feeding in fields on Cattle Hill.
On April 8, 1999 2 Curlew (KBG) flew high east.
On March 21, 2000 a single Curlew (ITB) flew south calling through Roedean Bottom.
On July 18, 2000 a single Curlew (ITB) flew South East over Cattle Hill.
On September 5, 2001 a flock of 17 Curlew (ITB) and 3 Whimbrel flew south over Cattle Hill.
On May 7, 2002 a single Curlew flew west (ITB).
On June 25, 2002 a group of 3 Curlew flew south east over Bullstrode farm.
On September 3, 2003 a single Curlew flew south over Cattle Hill (ITB).

Greenshank
Tringa nebularia
A fairly common passage migrant and scarce winter visitor to Sussex

One flew west over Cattle Hill calling (ITB) on August 15, 2004

Green Sandpiper
Tringa ochropus
The Green Sandpiper is a passage migrant that is far more common during the autumn migration than during the spring. It is also a scarce winter visitor.

On August 22, 1999 a single Green Sandpiper (ITB) flew calling west over Bullstrode farm.

Ruddy Turnstone
Arenaria interpres
The Ruddy Turnstone is a common winter visitor to our Sussex coastline and is often seen on passage.

On November 7, 1998 a single Ruddy Turnstone (ITB) was seen trailing a flock of 5 Mute Swans as they flew west over Roedean.

Arctic Skua
Stercorarius parasiticus
The Arctic Skua is a common passage migrant and is the commonest Skua seen along the Sussex coast during migration. A few birds have also been noted during the summer and winter periods.

On April 27, 2001 a single Arctic Skua (IJW) was seen to fly East along the coast and then head north east over Roedean School.

Black Headed Gull
Larus ridibundus
The Black Headed Gull is the most numerous gull in Sussex with large numbers occurring along the coast. The Black Headed Gull can be seen throughout the year in the Ovingdean, Roedean area but is most numerous in the winter months when large numbers gather over the stubble fields before they go to roost on the beach.

Common Gull
Larus canus
The Common Gull is a numerous Gull in Sussex throughout the Winter period. Large numbers gather over the fields in the Ovingdean, Roedean area before they go to roost.

Herring Gull
Larus argentatus argenteus
The Herring Gull of the sub-species argenteus is very common throughout Sussex. It is one of the most adaptable of the Gulls with many moving inland and nesting on many Sussex rooftops. They are very common throughout the year in the Ovingdean, Roedean area but none has yet bred on any rooftops in the Village.

Lesser Black Backed Gull
Larus fuscus graellsii
The Lesser Black Backed Gull is a very rare breeding bird in Sussex and is therefore uncommon during the Summer months when mostly immature birds are seen. During the Winter period a few birds can be seen in the daytime gatherings of gulls on the fields in the Ovingdean, Roedean area.

Great Black Backed Gull
Larus marinus
The Great Black Backed Gull is common in Sussex throughout the winter period but has only just been proved to have bred although a few immature birds have always summered. A few birds can be seen regularly in the daytime gatherings of gulls in the Ovingdean, Roedean area. One record of 2 Adult birds over Cattle Hill with a Juvenile bird on August 9, 2000 (ITB) may have been a local breeding pair.

Mediterranean Gull
Larus melanocephalus
The Mediterranean Gull has become a fairly common winter visitor to the Sussex coast with some remaining to summer. Breeding has now also occurred. Birds regularly roost on the beach at Ovingdean throughout the winter but only 3 have been recorded in this area.

On February 19, 1999 an adult winter Mediterranean Gull (ITB) was seen with Black Head Gulls over fields in Greenways Bottom.
On February 20, 1999 a different adult winter Mediterranean Gull (ITB) was seen over fields in Roedean Bottom.
On December 24, 2001 an adult winter Mediterranean Gull (ITB) was seen roosting in the field in Greenways Bottom.
On July 15, 2002 an adult in summer plumage was over Roedean school (ITB).
On February 24, 2003 2 Adult Meditereanean Gulls were in a freshly ploughed field in Greenways Bottom (ITB).
On February 26, 2003 3 Adult Meditereanean Gulls were in a freshly ploughed field in Greenways Bottom (ITB).
On March 13, 2003 An Adult Mediterranean Gull was seen (ITB).

Little Gull
Larus minutes
The Little Gull is a regular passage bird along the coast of Sussex but only a few birds remain to winter or summer. Only one record exists for the area.

On February 7, 1999 a Little Gull (SOS) was noted over fields in Greenways Bottom. This was during the stay of the Cattle Egret when many observers were visiting the site daily. It was also reported to have been seen on other days but no details are available.

Sandwich Tern
Sterna sandvicensis
The Sandwich Tern is a scarce breeding summer visitor, passage migrant and very rare winter visitor in Sussex. Many pass offshore during the spring and autumn but only one record exists for the Ovingdean/Roedean area.

On July 21, 2002 a Sandwich Tern (ITB) flew south through Greenways Bottom.

Common Tern
Sterna hirundo
The Common Tern is a regular sight during the summer period all along the coast and at inland waters. There is only one record for the area.

On October 11, 2000 a juvenile Common Tern (KBG) was observed flying along the cliffs in front of Roedean school before turning into Greenways Bottom.

Feral Pigeon
Columba livia
The Feral Pigeon is a very common site in Sussex and large numbers inhabit the area around Brighton. Large flocks of Feral Pigeons are regular sites feeding on the fields and flying over the Ovingdean, Roedean area.

Stock Dove
Columba oenas
The Stock Dove is a common bird in Sussex but it's preference for nesting in large trees mean it's scarce from the built up areas on the coastal plains. A few birds can be seen during the Autumn and larger numbers sometimes gather during the Winter periods .

On March 11, 2000 a large group of 80 Stock Doves (ITB) fed in the stubble field to the East of Roedean school in a mixed group of Feral Pigeons, Wood Pigeons and Collard Doves.
On December 28, 2000 a very large group of 120 Stock Doves (ITB) were feeding in the stubble field to the East of Roedean school with a small group of Feral Pigeons.

Wood Pigeon
Columba palumbus
The Wood Pigeon is a common sight in Sussex. They are seen all year on the fields of Ovingdean and Roedean and breed in the woods behind Ovingdean church. During the late Autumn and early Winter period large numbers of Wood Pigeons move along the coast usually for the first few hours of daylight. The lack of time spent at the site during this period means that the highest count is much lower than the actual movements as recorded at other local sites.
The largest counts follow:

On November 11, 1995 a total of 2400 Wood Pigeons (SOS) flew west in 40 minutes.
On November 5, 2001 a total of 3267 Wood Pigeons (ITB) flew west.

Turtle Dove
Streptopelia turtur
The Turtle Dove is noted as a widespread breeding bird in Sussex with a strong Easterly bias but is very uncommon around the Brighton area.

On August 31, 1999 a juvenile (KBG) was seen feeding by the hedge behind Roedean school.
On August 27, 2001 a single Turtle Dove (ITB) was seen flying North East over Cattle Hill.
On October 6, 2001 a juvenile Turtle Dove (IJW) was seen.
On October 13, 2001 2 juvenile Turtle Doves (IJW) were seen.
On August 26, 2002 a juvenile Turtle Dove flew west over Cattle Hill (ITB).
On September 11, 2002 a single Turtle Dove was seen (IJW).
On May 9, 2003 a single Turtle Dove was seen on Cattle Hill (ITB).
On August 28, 2003 2 Turtle Doves were seen in Roedean Bottom (ITB) .
On May 1, 2004 a single Turtle Dove was in the grounds of Roedean School (ITB).

Collared Dove
Streptopelia decaocto
The Collared Dove only arrived in Sussex in 1958 which was three years after it's initial colonization of Britain. It is now estimated that there is now a population of around 8000 pairs. The is always a flock present in the Ovingdean/Roedean area with the main gathering around Bullstrode Farm.
The highest counts are as follows:

On October 23, 1994 (SOS) a flock of 180 birds were counted.
On November 15, 1994 (SOS) a flock of 75 birds were counted.

Rose Ringed Parakeet
Psittacula krameri
The Rose Ringed Parakeet is native to the Oriental and northern Afro tropical regions. In Sussex a colony of feral birds resided in Hollingbury Woods from at least 1977 but have since moved on with no breeding records now noted. Birds are now generally only noted as scarce flyovers.

On October 17, 1989 a single Rose Ringed Parakeet (SOS) was recorded.
On October 8, 1994 a single Rose Ringed Parakeet (IJW) was seen flying over.
On October 14, 2000 a single Parakeet that was probably of this species (KBG) was seen flying west over Roedean school.
On November 13, 2003 A Ring-necked Parakeet flew north east over Greenways Bottom (ITB).

Cuckoo
Cuculus canorus
The Cuckoo is a fairly common summer visitor to Sussex but unsuitable habitat means they are scarce around the Brighton area. At present only 2 record exist for the Ovingdean/Roedean area.

On May 14, 1990 a Cuckoo (PD) was observed in the Ovingdean/Roedean area,
On the afternoon of August 3, 1999 a female Cuckoo of the rufous morph (ITB) was seen sitting on fence posts at Bullstrode farm.
On July 23, 2002 a Cuckoo (ITB) flew east over Cattle Hill.

Barn Owl
Tyto alba
The Barn Owl was a scarce breeding resident in the county of Sussex. Numbers have increased recently and in suitable habitat a hunting Barn Owl is now a fairly common sight.

An individual wintered in the area during the 2000/2001 period and was mainly seen after dark hunting under the street lights along Greenways in Ovingdean. It was first noted on December 22, 2000 and last seen on February 18, 2001.
A Barn Owl was seen in Greenways Bottom on the evening of August 3, 2002 and again on August 4, 2002 (ITB).

Long-eared Owl
Asio otus
The Long-eared Owl is noted as a rare breeding resident and winter visitor in Sussex. Small numbers are known to breed in suitable habitat but many are probably overlooked as they can be very secretive and in inaccessible areas. Larger numbers move into the county in winter and gather in communal roost but again many must remain un-found.

A Long-eared Owl (ITB) spent the winter period of 1997 in the Ovingdean area and was regularly seen after dark perched on fence posts along Greenways.

Short-eared Owl
Asio flammeus
The Short-eared Owl is a scarce winter visitor to Sussex, but it's numbers can fluctuate widely with severe weather on the continent pushing large numbers into Britain to feed.

On October 18, 1982 a Short-eared Owl (SOS) was reported from the Ovingdean/Roedean area.
On October 11, 1991 a Short-eared Owl (PD) was observed from the Ovingdean/Roedean area.
On November 21, 1998 a Short-eared Owl (ITB) was observed hunting over the southern end of the golf course.
On October 20, 2001 a Short-eared Owl (IJW) was observed flying high over Cattle Hill. It lost height and then flew low north over the southern end of the golf course.
On the morning of April 18, 2002 a Short-eared Owl (IJW) was seen flying in off the sea at Brighton Marina it was seen to land in the Sycamores just north of the entrance to Roedean school. What was probably the same bird was seen later in the afternoon flying north east over Cattle Hill (ITB) being mobbed by Gulls.

Little Owl
Athene noctua
The Little Owl is not native to Britain but is now noted as a fairly common resident in Sussex. A pair is known to breed in the buildings of Bullstrode farm and they can sometimes be seen around the buildings of the farm at dusk. They can often be heard after dark as they hunt over the village of Ovingdean. Sometimes during the day they can be seen sat on posts around the woods near to Ovingdean Church.

Nightjar
Caprimulgus europaeus
The Nightjar is noted as a fairly common summer visitor to Sussex that is rarely seen on migration. In recent years with increased observation at nearby Brighton Marina at least 1 Nightjar is recorded annually during spring sea-watching. Only one record exists for the Ovingdean/Roedean area.

On April 26, 2000 a Nightjar (PD) was flushed on two occasions. On the second occasion it flew north from the scrub behind Roedean school

Swift
Apus apus
The Swift is widespread in Sussex but declining. It's main breeding areas are the main urban areas. Large numbers are seen though during migration periods. In the Ovingdean/Roedean area it is mainly seen as a passage bird, but with a few feeding over the fields most summer evenings. Bad weather during the autumn migration can see large numbers gathered feeding over the fields. The earliest record for a spring arrival in this area is of 2 birds on April 223, 2004 (ITB) and the latest autumn record is September 18, 1990 (IJW).

Wryneck
Jynx torquilla
The Wryneck is a Scarce passage migrant in Sussex. In the past it was a breeding bird but last bred near Hastings in 1944. There are only 2 records of Wryneck in the Ovingdean/Roedean area, but at nearby Sheepcote valley they are seen annually.

On September 26, 2000 a Wryneck (ITB) was throughout the day feeding on the roadside verge along Greenways in Ovingdean.
On August 31, 2001 a Wryneck (ITB) was flushed from amongst the crop along the back of Roedean school, it landed in the hedge giving good views before moving into the school grounds. There was also a brief glimpse of what was probably this bird in flight along the hedge on September 5, 2001 (ITB).

Great Spotted Woodpecker
Dendrocopos major
The Great Spotted Woodpecker can be found throughout Sussex in areas where there are trees. In the period of August to November there is some form of migration that can turn up Great Spotted Woodpeckers in unusual habitat.

On October 10, 1999 a pair of Great Spotted Woodpeckers (ITB) were seen in the Woods behind Ovingdean Church.
On October 15, 2000 a Great Spotted Woodpecker (KBG) flew east over Roedean school.
On October 6, 2001 a Great Spotted Woodpecker (IJW) was seen.
On October14, 2001 a Great Spotted Woodpecker (IJW) was seen.
On October 21, 2001 a Great Spotted Woodpecker (IJW) was seen.
A Great Spotted Woodpecker was first noted on September 23, 2003 and remained in the woods behind Ovingdean Church into 2004 (ITB, ADW).
2004 produced what was probably a resident pair.

Green Woodpecker
Picus viridis
The Green Woodpecker is noted as a fairly common resident in Sussex. They prefer to feed on open ground with mature woodland nearby to breed. They are recorded regularly and breed in the Ovingdean/Roedean area with most records probably relating to a pair and it's annual offspring. They are usually either to be found feeding in local gardens or the grounds of Roedean school.

Wood Lark
Lullula arborea
The Wood Lark is a scarce resident and passage migrant in Sussex. The resident birds are usually found in areas of immature or felled plantations and gather at favored site to winter. Migratory birds are rarely recorded in spring but autumn birds are fairly regular and are presumed to relate to birds from the continent.

On October 9, 1998 a flock of 7 Wood Larks (ITB) were seen at the southern end of Roedean Bottom feeding in stubble. These birds were still present on October 10, 1998 (ITB, KBG).
On October 4, 1999 3 Wood Larks (KBG) flew north west over Roedean Bottom.
On October 11, 1999 2 Wood Larks (ITB) flew west over Cattle Hill.
On August 20, 2001 2 Wood Larks (ITB) flew west over the southern end of Roedean Bottom.

Skylark
Alauda arvensis
The Skylark is noted as a common resident in Sussex with many also seen on passage and numbers boosted during the winter period.
In the Ovingdean/Roedean area they are a fairly common breeding bird and are the main songster of the summer months. During the winter a large mobile flock can gather, they usually occur in whichever field has been left as set-aside but seem to prefer the fields to the east of Roedean school. All wintering records of over 200 birds are listed below.

On December 31, 1994 a group of 220 Skylarks (SOS) were noted.
On January 4, 1995 a group of 200 Skylarks (SOS) were noted.
On December 3, 1995 a group of 210 Skylarks (SOS) were noted.
On December 27, 1997 a group of 230 Skylarks were noted.
On December 28, 2000 a group of 250 Skylarks (ITB) were present in the fields to the east of Roedean school.
On December 29, 2001 a group of 459 Skylarks (ITB) were present in the fields to the east of Roedean school and are the largest flock yet noted in the area.

Sand Martin
Riparia riparia
The Sand Martin is a fairly common summer visitor and common passage migrant to Sussex. They are only seen on passage in the Ovingdean/Roedean area. The earliest record is for March 30, 1999 (KBG) with the latest record for September 21, 2002 (ITB). Spring records usually only involve a few birds but in the autumn larger movements occur and the largest count of 435 on September 17, 2001 (ITB).

Swallow
Hirundo rustica
The Swallow is a very common summer visitor and also a very common passage migrant. In the Ovingdean/Roedean area birds are seen throughout the summer months with the earliest record on March 24, 1999 (ITB). They breed in the farm buildings of Bullstrode farm and are regularly seen feeding over the fields during the summer. The autumn brings large coastal movements in suitable conditions but due to lack of time to count the passing birds the highest count is just 1850 flying over on September 17, 2001. The latest record for the area is on November 1, 2004 (ITB).

Red-rumped Swallow
Hirundo daurica
The Red-rumped Swallow is a very rare vagrant to Sussex.

On the afternoon of September 7, 1998 an immature Red-rumped Swallow (ITB) flew north through Roedean Bottom during a small movement of Swallows and House Martins.

House Martin
Delichon urbica
The House Martin is a common summer visitor and very common passage migrant to Sussex. They breed under the open eaves of some of the buildings in the Roedean school complex. Around 40 birds are present throughout the summer months. Autumn sees the largest numbers with large movements coinciding with suitable weather conditions. The largest movement count was of 10,180 (ITB) birds all flying west on September 17, 2001. The earliest recorded in the area is of a single bird on April 4, 1999 (KBG) and the latest recorded are 4 birds on November 11, 1998 (ITB).

Tawny Pipit
Anthus campestris
The Tawny Pipit is a very scarce visitor to Sussex with most recorded in the autumn period. The first and second records for Britain were from Sussex with the second record from near Rottingdean on September 24, 1862. Another bird was netted between Brighton and Rottingdean on September 30, 1864 and a record of 2 shot near Rottingdean on September 6, 1869. Another was netted near Brighton in October 1871, none of these early records count in the Ovingdean/Roedean area as no specific location is known.
Three other records exist for the area.

On September 6, 1981 a single Tawny Pipit (SOS) was noted.
On October 3, 1982 a single Tawny Pipit (SOS) was noted.
On September 17, 1986 a single Tawny Pipit (SOS) was noted.

Tree Pipit
Anthus trivialis
The Tree Pipit is noted as a fairly common but local summer visitor and passage migrant. They are only seen on passage in the Ovingdean/Roedean area with all but 3 records for the autumn period.

Meadow Pipit
Anthus pratensis
The Meadow Pipit is noted as a locally common resident, very common passage migrant and winter visitor in Sussex. There is at least one breeding pair in the Ovingdean/Roedean area. Large numbers are seen during passage and birds winter here on the stubble fields. The largest count for the area is of 700 birds present on Cattle Hill (ITB) on September 18, 2002.

Yellow Wagtail
Motacilla flava flavissima
The Yellow Wagtail is noted as a fairly common but localized summer visitor and common passage migrant in Sussex. In the Ovingdean/Roedean area the Yellow Wagtail is a common passage migrant with most recorded in the autumn period. The largest count is of 80 with cattle on Cattle Hill on August 28, 1998 (ITB).
The earliest recorded is April 21 1999 (ITB) and the latest recorded is October 15, 2000 (KBG).
Blue Headed Wagtail
Motacilla flava flava
The only record of the nominate form of the Yellow Wagtail is of 3 birds on Cattle Hill on August 28,1998 (ITB).

Grey Wagtail
Motacilla cinerea
The Grey Wagtail is noted as a fairly common resident, passage migrant and winter visitor in Sussex. In the Ovingdean/Roedean area it is a fairly common passage migrant. The earliest record being a single bird flying over on March 27, 2004 (ITB) and the latest recorded on November 9, 2003 (ITB).

Pied Wagtail
Motacilla alba yarrelli
The Pied Wagtail is noted as a common resident, passage migrant and winter visitor in Sussex.
They are generally seen in the Ovingdean/Roedean area from late summer until early spring. There is a large roost on Brighton Marina and reasonable numbers can gather prior to that roost. The largest counts are as follows

On October 11, 1999 25 Pied Wagtails (ITB) were in Roedean Bottom.
On November 10, 1999 30 Pied Wagtails (ITB) were in Roedean Bottom.
On October 6, 2000 45 Pied Wagtails (KBG) were on Roedean school playing fields.
On March 24, 2004 22 Pied Wagtails (ITB) were in Roedean Bottom.

White Wagtail
Motacilla alba alba
White Wagtails appear in the Ovingdean/Roedean area during the autumn period.

On October 22, 1993 a single White Wagtail (SOS) was recorded.
On October 9, 1998 a single White Wagtail (ITB) was recorded.
On April 18, 2001 a single White Wagtail (ITB) was recorded.
On October 4, 2001 2 White Wagtails (IJW) were in the entrance to Roedean school.
On October 6, 2001 3 White Wagtails (IJW) were in the entrance to Roedean school.
On March 26, 2002 a single White Wagtail (ITB) was present on the field in the entrance to Roedean school and was still present on March 27, 2002 (ITB).
On April 2, 2002 a single White Wagtail (ITB) was present on the field in the entrance to Roedean school and was still present on April 3, 2002 (ITB). On April 4, 2002 it was joined by a second bird (ITB).
On April 18, 2002 a single White Wagtail (ITB) was present on the field in the entrance to Roedean school
On March 24, 2004 2 White Wagtails (ITB) were present on the field in the entrance to Roedean School
On April 2, 2004 a single White Wagtail (ITB) was present on the field in the entrance to Roedean school.

Wren
Troglodytes troglodytes
The Wren is an abundant resident in Sussex and is a common resident throughout the Ovingdean/Roedean area.

Dunnock
Prunella modularis
The Dunnock is an abundant resident in Sussex and is a common resident throughout the Ovingdean/Roedean area.

Robin
Erithacus rubecula
The Robin is an abundant resident, passage migrant and winter visitor in Sussex and is a common resident in the Ovingdean/Roedean area. Their numbers are boosted in the autumn with passage birds some of which stay to over winter.

On October 20, 2001 25 Robins (IJW) were recorded.

Nightingale
Luscinia megarhynchos
The Nightingale is a fairly common summer visitor and very secretive passage migrant. 2 records exist for the Ovingdean/Roedean area.

On August 5, 1999 2 Nightingales (ITB) were present in the bushes at the southern end of the golf course.
On September 2, 2000 a single Nightingale (ITB) was present in the hedge behind Roedean school.

Black Redstart
Phoenicurus ochruros
The Black Redstart is noted as a rare resident, fairly common passage migrant and scarce winter visitor in Sussex. In the Ovingdean/Roedean area they are fairly common passage migrants and scarce winter visitors. The peak count is of 12 birds present on March 24-25, 1999 (ITB).

Redstart
Phoenicurus phoenicurus
The Redstart is a scarce summer visitor and fairly common passage migrant in Sussex. They are also a fairly common passage migrant in the Ovingdean/Roedean area with about 10 records on average per year. The earliest record is April 3, 2000 (ITB) and the latest record is of 3 birds on October 10, 2001 (IJW).

Whinchat
Saxicola rubetra
The Whinchat is a rare summer visitor and fairly common passage migrant in Sussex. They are recorded annually on passage in the Ovingdean/Roedean area with the bulk of the records during the autumn period. The earliest record is of 1 on April 28, 2004 (ITB) and the latest record is of 2 on October 14, 2001 (IJW). A peak count of 23 in Roedean Bottom on September 12, 2002 (ITB).

Stonechat
Saxicola torquata
The Stonechat is noted as a scarce resident and partial migrant in Sussex. They are a regular passage migrant during the autumn period with occasional birds over wintering. A few birds are recorded during the summer periods suggesting nearby breeding but this remains unconfirmed although family parties have been noted during the early autumn period.

Wheatear
Oenanthe oenanthe
The Northern Wheatear is a scarce summer visitor and common passage migrant in Sussex and a common passage migrant in the Ovingdean/Roedean are where it is often the first sign of spring. The earliest record for the area is of a single bird on March 14, 2000 (ITB) and the latest recorded on November 15, 2000 (IJW). The largest count taken during the spring period was of 52 birds in the evening of April 5, 2000 (ITB) and the largest autumn count is of 24 birds on August 20, 1999 (ITB).

Ring Ouzel
Turdus torquatus
The Ring Ouzel is a scarce spring passage migrant but fairly common although localized autumn passage migrant in Sussex and in the Ovingdean/Roedean area.

An adult male present on April 29, 1999 (ITB,KBG)
3 birds including 1 adult male present on April 4, 2000 (ITB) and what was probably the same male also recorded on April 5, and 6, 2000.
On October 20, 2001 11 birds were present (IJW)
On October 28, 2001 5 birds were present (IJW)
On October 29, 2001 just 2 birds were present (ITB)
On March 17, 2002 an adult female was present in the eastern end of the hedge at Roedean (ITB).
On November 3, 2004 a single male Ring Ouzel (ITB) was present in the south east corner of the Golf Course

Blackbird
Turdus merula
The Blackbird is an abundant resident and winter visitor in Sussex. With birds being common residents in the Ovingdean/Roedean area.

Fieldfare
Turdus pilaris
The Fieldfare is a common passage migrant and winter visitor to Sussex. They are recorded on passage in the Ovingdean/Roedean area and in very harsh winters they can occur in the village gardens.

15 Fieldfare flew over Roedean on October 12, 1997 (KBG)
1 Fieldfare in the grounds of Roedean school on April 6, 1999 (ITB, KGB)
2 Fieldfare in the Hedge at Roedean on November 11, 1999 (ITB)
2 Fieldfare in the Hedge at Roedean on March 3, 2000 (ITB)
1 Fieldfare in the bushes at Roedean on March 23, 2000 (ITB)
4 Fieldfare in the bushes at Roedean on October 29, 2001 (ITB)
1 Fieldfare in bushes in the southern corner of the golf course on November 5, 2002 (ITB).
1 Fieldfare in the Grounds of Roedean School on October 31, 2003 (ITB).
1 Fieldfare in the South east corner of the Golfcourse on November 12, 2003 (ITB).

Redwing
Turdus iliacus
The Redwing is a very common passage migrant and winter visitor to the county of Sussex. They are also very common on passage in the Ovingdean/Roedean area with a few also recorded during the winter period. Passage takes place mainly at night and poor visabilty may bring the birds lower so their calls can be heard. Some daylight passage may take place and the highest count is an estimated count of over 5000 birds flying west on October 12, 1997 between 9:30 and 10:30 (KBG).

Song Thrush
Turdus philomelos
A common resident, passage migrant and winter visitor in the county if Sussex. They are also a common resident in the gardens of both Ovingdean and Roedean. Birds are noted on passage in the hedge and bushes behind Roedean school and a few may winter here.

Mistle Thrush
Turdus viscivorus
The Mistle Thrush is a common resident and partial migrant in Sussex. Only migrants are seen in the Ovingdean/Roedean area and are therefore scarce here.

1 Mistle Thrush behind Ovingdean church on October 9, 1998 (ITB)
A single Mistle Thrush flew east on October 25, 1999 (KBG)
An amazing 6 Mistle Thrushes were seen on October 14, 2001 (IJW)
A single Mistle Thrush was seen on Cattle Hill on October 27, 2001 (ITB)
2 Mistle Thrush were seen in the hedge at Roedean (ITB) on April 27, 2002.
A single Mistle Thrush was seen on Cattle Hill (ITB) on May 2, 2002.
2 Mistle Thrushes were seen on May 23, 2003 (ITB).
3 Mistle Thrushes were first seen around Ovingdean Church on October 31, 2003 (ITB) and remained into 2004 lingering throughout the year with a peak count of 5 on October 29, 2004.

Grasshopper Warbler
Locustella naevia
The Grasshopper Warbler is a scarce and declining summer visitor but a common passage migrant in Sussex. Only 2 have been seen in the Ovingdean/Roedean area.

A single bird was heard reeling but not seen near the Golf course on September 1, 1998 (ITB)
A single bird flushed from overgrown set aside on September 17, 2000 (ITB)
A single bird flushed from long grass behind Roedean School on August 27, 2003 (ITB).
A single bird flushed from the edge of a field in Roedean Bottom on August 30, 2003 (ITB).
A single birdshowed well in bush after flushing from long grass in Roedean Bottom on August 10, 2004 (ITB)

Sedge Warbler
Acrocephalus schoenobaenus
The Sedge Warbler is a common summer visitor and very common passage migrant in Sussex and is recorded on passage, but only in the autumn period, in the Ovingdean/Roedean area. The peak count is of 5 birds present on September 3, 1999 (ITB) and also 5 birds on August 11, 2002 (ITB). The earliest record being of a single present on July 29, 2001 (ITB) and the latest record of a single bird on September 12, 1999 (KBG).

Reed Warbler
Acrocephalus scirpaceus
The Reed Warbler is a common summer visitor and very common passage migrant in Sussex. The are recorded on passage, but only during the autumn period in the Ovingdean/Roedean area. The peak count is of 10 birds present on August 12, 1999 (ITB). The earliest record is of a singing bird on June 21, 2001 (ITB) and the latest record of a single bird on October 13, 2001 (IJW).

Dartford Warbler
Sylvia undata
The Dartford Warbler is a scarce resident and partial migrant in Sussex with only one record for the Ovingdean/Roedean area.

A first winter bird was seen at the eastern end of the hedge behind Roedean school on October 14, 2001 (IJW).

Sardinian Warbler
Sylvia melanocephala
The Sardinian Warbler is a very rare vagrant.

On April 20, 2000 a male Sardinian Warbler was seen well but briefly in the evening (ITB) but despite extensive searching could not be re found in heavy rain. Dawn the next day saw 4 observer searching and after an hour the Sardinian Warbler left it's roost and showed well for about an hour before moving south and into the school grounds. It was not seen again despite many observer looking. It was seen by just 9 observers and constituted the fifth record for the county.

Lesser Whitethroat
Sylvia curruca
The Lesser Whitethroat is a common summer visitor and passage migrant in Sussex. It is also a fairly common passage migrant in the Ovingdean/Roedean are. The peak count is of 3 birds on August 31, 1999 (KBG) equalled with 3 birds on August 26, 2003 (ITB) and equalled again on September 26, 2004 (ITB). The earliest record is of a single bird on April 16, 2002 (ITB) with the latest record of a single bird on September 28, 2002 (ITB).

Greater Whitethroat
Sylvia communis
The Whitethroat is a very common summer visitor and passage migrant. It is a very common passage migrant in the Ovingdean/Roedean area with a least four pairs remaining through the summer. The peak count is of 34 birds present on August 28, 2004 (ITB). The earliest record is of 1 bird present on April 15, 2003 (ITB) and the latest record of a single bird on September 21, 2002 (ITB).

Garden Warbler
Sylvia borin
The Garden Warbler is a very common summer visitor and passage migrant in Sussex with only 1 or 2 seen annually in the Ovingdean/Roedean area.

On August 8, 1998 a single Garden Warbler was in bushes near the Golf course (ITB)
On September 12, 1999 a single Garden Warbler was seen (KBG)
On October 12, 1999 a single Garden Warbler was seen (KBG)
On October 25, 1999 a single Garden Warbler was seen (KBG)
2 birds were present in the Sycamores near to the entrance to Roedean school on April 26, 2000 with 1 still present the following day.
On August 29, 2000 a single Garden Warbler was seen in the bushes (ITB)
On May 3, 2002 2 Garden Warblers were present in the hedge at Roedean (ITB).
On May 7, 2002 2 Garden Warblers were present in the sycamores near to the entrance to Roedean school (ITB).
On August 24, 2002 a single Garden Warbler was present (ITB).
On April 29, 2004 a single Garden Warbler was present (ITB).

Blackcap
Sylvia atricapilla
The Blackcap is a very common summer visitor and passage migrant with some wintering birds in the county of Sussex. They are seen annually on passage in the Ovingdean/Roedean area. The peak count is of just 4 birds on October 12, 1999 (ITB, KBG). The earliest record being a single on April 1, 2003 (ITB) and the latest record being of a single male on November 15, 2002 (ITB).

Yellow-browed Warbler
Phylloscopus inornatus
The Yellow-browed Warbler is a very scarce visitor with most recorded in the autumn in Sussex. A single record exists for the Ovingdean/Roedean area.

A Yellow-browed Warbler was present in the woods behind Ovingdean church on October 16, 1984 (SOS).

Pallas's Leaf Warbler
Phylloscopus poregulus
The Pallas's Warbler is a very scarce autumn vagrant in the county of Sussex

A Pallas's Warbler (ITB) was present with Goldcrest on the afternoon of November 3, 2004. It prefered the north east corner of the woods behind Ovingdean Church.

Wood Warbler
Phylloscopus sibilatrix
The Wood Warbler is a very scarce summer visitor and passage migrant in the county of Sussex. There is just a single record of 2 birds for the Ovingdean/Roedean area.

2 Wood Warblers were seen on May 10, 1985 (SOS)

Chiffchaff
Phylloscopus collybitta
The Chiffchaff is a very common summer visitor and passage migrant with small numbers wintering in Sussex. They are very common on passage in the Ovingdean/Roedean area. The peak count being of 34 birds on September 26, 2004 (ITB). The earliest record is of a single bird on March 13, 2000 and the latest record is of a single bird on November 18, 1998 (ITB).

Willow Warbler
Phylloscopus trochilus
The Willow Warbler is an abundant summer visitor and passage migrant in Sussex with many seen on passage in the Ovingdean/Roedean area. The peak count is of 36 birds on August 10, 2004 (ITB). The earliest record is of a single bird on March 29, 2002 (ITB) and the latest record is of a single bird on September 25, 2002 (ITB).

Goldcrest
Regulus regulus
The Goldcrest is a very common resident, passage migrant and winter visitor in the county of Sussex. Passage birds are recorded annually in the Ovingdean/Roedean area. The peak count is of 33 birds present on October 12, 1999 (ITB, KBG). The earliest record is for a single bird on March 6, 2004 (ITB). The latest record is of 2 birds present on November 21, 1999 (ITB) and November 21, 2003 (ITB).

Firecrest
Regulus ignicapillus
The Firecrest is a rare breeding bird and scarce passage migrant with some wintering in the county of Sussex. They are a scarce passage migrant in the Ovingdean/Roedean area.

A single bird was seen on October 18, 1994 (IJW)
A single bird was seen on October 16, 1996 (IJW)
A female was seen in the hedge on September 3, 1999 (ITB)
A single bird was seen on March 22, 2000 (ITB)
A single bird was seen on April 22, 2000 (ITB)
A male was present on September 22, 2001 (IJW)
A single bird was seen on October 28, 2001 (IJW)
A female was present in the hedge at Roedean on March 12, 2002 (ITB).
A male was present in the hedge at Roedean on March 18, 2002 (ITB).
3 birds were present on March 19, 2002 (IJW).
3 birds that consisted of 2 males and a single female were present in the hedge at Roedean on March 31, 2002 (ITB).
2 birds were seen in the hedge behind Roedean School on September 19, 2003 (ITB).
2 birds in the hedge behind Roedean School from April 1 to April 4, 2004 (ITB) with a single still present on April 6, 2004
A single bird present from October 29 to November 2, 2004 (ITB)

Spotted Flycatcher
Muscicapa striata
The Spotted Flycatcher is a fairly common summer visitor and passage migrant in the county of Sussex. They are scarce passage migrants in the Ovingdean/Roedean area.

On September 2, 1998 a Spotted Flycatcher was seen in bushes near the Golf course (ITB)
On May 14, 1999 a Spotted Flycatcher was seen in the hedge (ITB)
On May 19, 1999 2 Spotted Flycatchers were seen in the hedge (ITB)
On May 25, 1999 a Spotted Flycatcher was seen in the hedge (ITB)
On June 9, 1999 a Spotted Flycatcher was seen singing in the hedge(ITB)
On August 31, 1999 2 Spotted Flycatchers were seen in trees in the Grounds of Roedean school (KBG)
On August 27, 2001 3 Spotted Flycatchers were seen (ITB) with one still present on 28, (ITB).
On May 15, 2002 a single Spotted Flycatcher was in the bushes near the golf course (ITB).
On July 31, 2002 a single Spotted Flycatcher was present (ITB) and presumed still present on September 1, 2002 (ITB).
On September 11, 2002 4 Spotted Flycatchers were present in the sycamores near to the entrance of Roedean school (ITB).
On August 14, 2003 a Spotted Flycatcher was seen (ITB).
On September 9, 2003 2 Spotted Flycatchers were seen (ITB).
On September 6, 2003 a Spotted Flycatcher was seen (ITB).
On September 7, 2003 5 Spotted Flycatchers were seen (ITB).
On September 17, 2003 a Spotted Flycatcher was seen (ITB).
On October 2, 2003 a Spotted Flycatcher was seen (ITB).
On May 1, 2004 2 Spotted Flycatchers were seen (ITB).
On May 10, 2004 a Spotted Flycatcher was seen (ITB).
On May 13, 2004 a Spotted Flycatcher was seen (ITB).

Red-breasted Flycatcher
Ficedula parva
The red-breasted Flycatcher is a rare autumn vagrant in Sussex with a single record for the Ovingdean/Roedean area.

On September 16, 2002 a first winter Red-breasted Flycatcher was seen (ITB) well but briefly in the hedge behind Roedean school and could not be relocated despite extensive searching. It probable flew into the school grounds.

Pied Flycatcher
Ficedula hypoleuca
The Pied Flycatcher is a scarce passage migrant that is more numerous in autumn than spring in Sussex and has bred in the past. They are a scarce passage migrant in the Ovingdean/Roedean area.

A female type was seen in the hedge on September 6, 1999 (ITB) and remained until 9, (ITB)
A female type was seen in the hedge on May 8, 2000 (ITB)
An adult male was seen in the sycamores by the entrance to Roedean school on May 9, 2000 (ITB)
A female type was seen in the hedge on August 29, 2001 (ITB)
A single female type was present on August 11, 2002 (ITB).
A single female type was present on August 16, 2002 (ITB).
A single female type was present on August 23, 2002 (ITB).
A single female type was present on August 29, 2002 (ITB).
2 female types were present on September 11, 2002 (ITB).
A single female type was present on September 12, 2002 (ITB) and presumed still present on September 13, 2002 (ITB).
A single femle type was present on April 26, 2003 (ITB)
An adult male was present on April 28, 2003 (ITB).
2 were present on August 6, 2003 (ITB)
2 different individuals were present on August 7, 2003 (ITB).
6 were present on August 8, 2003 (ITB) the largest count at this site.
A single was present on August 12, 2003 (ITB).
A single was present on August 26, 2003 (ITB).
A single was present on September 2, 2003 (ITB).
A single was present on September 19, 2003 (ITB).
A single was present on September 21, 2003 (ITB).
A single was present on April 28, 2004 (ITB)

Long-tailed Tit
Aegithalos caudatus
The Long-tailed Tit is a very common resident in Sussex but they are scarce in the Ovingdean/Roedean area.

A group of 10 were seen on September 27 1998 (ITB) these probably lingered with 4 seen on November 22 (ITB) and 10 seen on November 29 (ITB).
A group of 6 were seen on November 10, 1999 (ITB)
3 were seen on March 11, 2000 (ITB)
3 were seen on March 12, 2001 (IJW)
2 were seen on March 31, 2001 (ITB)
2 were seen in Greenways Bottom on March 26 2003 (ITB).
10 were seen at the south east end of the Golf course on October 2, 2003 (ITB).
14 were seen on September 26, 2004 (ITB) in the woods behind Ovingdean Church
5 were seen on November 4 and again on November 7, 2004 (ITB) in the woods behind Ovingdean Church

Marsh Tit
Poecile palustris
The Marsh Tit is a common resident in Sussex but is fairly non migratory. Therefore they are very rare at coastal sites. 1 record exists for the Ovingdean/Roedean area.

On September 13, 1998 a Marsh Tit was seen and heard calling in the bushes near to the golf course (ITB).

Blue Tit
Cyanistes caeruleus
The Blue Tit is an abundant resident in Sussex and the Ovingdean/Roedean area.

Great Tit
Parus major
The Great Tit is an abundant resident in Sussex and the Ovingdean/Roedean area.

Jay
Garrulus glandarius
The Jay is a very common resident, passage migrant and winter visitor in Sussex. They are fairly scarce migrants in the Ovingdean/Roedean area.

On October 4, 2000 a single Jay was seen (KBG)
On March 10, 2001 2 birds were seen (ITB)
On October 27, 2001 a single bird was seen (ITB)
On April 4, 2002 a single bird was seen (ITB).
On November 3, 2002 a single bird was seen (ITB).
On November 17, 2002 a single bird was seen in the woods behind Ovingdean church (ITB).
On September 14, 2003 2 flew over the woods behind Ovingdean Church (ITB).
On April 28, 2004 a single bird was seen (ITB)
On September 26, 2004 a single bird was in the wood behind Ovingdean Church (ITB)

Magpie
Pica pica
The Magpie is a very common resident in Sussex and in the Ovingdean/Roedean area with a peak count of 20 birds on February 12, 1994 (SOS)

Jackdaw
Corvus monedula
The Jackdaw is a very common resident in the County of Sussex. It is also fairly common in the Ovingdean/Roedean area with a peak count of 40 birds on July 19, 2001 (ITB).

Rook
Corvus frugilegus
The Rook is a very common resident in the county of Sussex. They used to be fairly scarce in the Ovingdean/Roedean area but are now fairly common with a peak count of 30 Birds seen on July 14, 2001 and now breed in the woods behind Ovingdean Church with 8 occupied nest in 2004

Carrion Crow
Corvus corone
The Carrion Crow is a very common resident in the county of Sussex and in the Ovingdean/Roedean area. The peak count for the area is of 325 birds present on July 14, 2001.

Raven
Corvus corax
The Raven was originally a breeding bird in the county but ceased inland by 1880 and ceased at the coast 15 years later. A few records during the winter periods made the Raven a rare visitor but in the last few years they have returned in numbers and once again breed with possibly 3 pairs. There are 2 records in the Ovingdean/Roedean area.

On September 2, 2002 a single Raven (ITB) flew north up through Greenways Bottom over Ovingdean Church. It landed for 5 minutes in the Horse Paddock before flying low over Mount Pleasent.
On September 11, 2002 a Raven (IJW) was observed.
On March 17, 2004 a single Raven flew west over Bullstrode Farm

Starling
Sturnus vulgaris
The Starling is a very common resident, passage migrant and winter visitor in the county of Sussex. The are common throughout the year in the Ovingdean/Roedean area with the largest numbers seen on the fields in the early autumn with large gatherings of noisy juveniles. The largest number seen flying over are during the winter months when thousands fly west over the area to roost on the derelict west pier sometimes large numbers stop in pre-roost gatherings on Roedean school.

House Sparrow
Passer domesticus
The House Sparrow is an abundant resident in the county of Sussex. They are a common resident in both of the villages of Ovingdean and Roedean but are now very scarce on the fields between the 2 villages with modern farming not providing the food source it once did.

Chaffinch
Fringilla coelebs
The Chaffinch is an abundant resident, passage migrant and winter visitor in the county of Sussex. They are a fairly common passage migrant in the Ovingdean/Roedean area with large numbers seen during the autumn. The peak count is of 220 flying west in a 20 minute period on October 14, 2000 (KBG).

Brambling
Fringilla montifringilla
The Brambling is a fairly common winter visitor and passage migrant in the county of Sussex. The are a scarce passage migrant in the Ovingdean/Roedean area .

A single bird was seen on October 22, 1993 (SOS)
A single bird was seen on October 16, 1996 (IJW)
A single bird was seen flying west on March 25, 1999 (ADW)
An adult male flew west over Cattle Hill on October 11, 1999 (ITB)
3 birds were seen on October 14, 2000 (KBG)
A single bird flew east on October 20, 2000 (KBG)
2 birds flew east on October 13, 2001 (IJW)
2 Birds flew east over Greenways Bottom on November 5, 2001 (ITB)
10 birds in the trees around Ovingdean Church on November 4, 2003 (ITB)
A single bird flew over on November 7, 2003 (ITB).
2 birds flew over on November 12, 2003 (ITB).
A single bird flew over on November 16, 2003 (ITB).
A single bird flew over on November 7, 2004 (ITB)

Greenfinch
Carduelis chloris
The Greenfinch is a very common resident, passage migrant and winter visitor to the county of Sussex and the Ovingdean/Roedean area.

Goldfinch
Carduelis carduelis
The Goldfinch is a common resident and passage migrant in Sussex and in the Ovingdean/Roedean area. The peak count being of 300 birds flying over on October 13, 2001 (IJW).

Siskin
Carduelis spinus
The Siskin is a common winter visitor and passage migrant in Sussex. They are common on passage during the autumn period in the Ovingdean/Roedean area with the peak count of 20 flying over on October 13, 2001 (IJW)

Linnet
Carduellis cannabina
The Linnet is a very common resident and partial migrant in Sussex. In the Ovingdean/Roedean area they are a common resident and winter visitor. The peak count being of 140 birds in Roedean Bottom on August 22, 2002 (ITB).

Lesser Redpoll
Carduelis flammea cabaret
The Lesser Redpoll is a fairly common breeding bird, passage migrant and winter visitor in the county of Sussex. In the Ovingdean/Roedean area they a fairly common on autumn passage. The peak count is of 80 flying over on October 13, 2001 (IJW).

Crossbill
Loxia curvirostra
A scarce winter visitor and passage migrant in Sussex that can occur in large numbers in irruption years.

On August 31, 2002 a flock of 5 Crossbills flew over Cattle Hill (ITB).
On September 1, 2002 a flock of 3 Crossbills flew over Cattle Hill (ITB).
On August 24, 2003 a flock of 5 Crossbills flew over Cattle Hill (ITB).
On September 14, 2003 2 Crossbills flew over Roedean Bottom (ITB).

Bullfinch
Pyrrhula pyrrhula
The Bullfinch is a very common resident in Sussex but very scarce around the Brighton Area. There are only 2 records from the Ovingdean/Roedean area.

On March 25, 1999 a male was seen (IJW)
On September 4, 2000 a male flew west over Roedean school (ITB).

Yellowhammer
Emberiza citrinella
The Yellowhammer is a very common resident in Sussex but is surprisingly scarce in the Ovingdean/Roedean area given the suitable habitat. Recent records may point to a breeding pair on the golf course sometimes straying to the bushes near the southern end.

Rustic Bunting
Emberiza rustica
The Rustic Bunting is a very rare vagrant in the County of Sussex.

A Rustic Bunting was trapped near to the old Naptha works, close to where Roedean school now stands, on October 23, 1867 and was the first British record. It is in the Booth bird museum (BoMNH 204074).

Little Bunting
Emberiza pusilla
The Little Bunting is a very rare vagrant in the county of Sussex.

A Little Bunting was netted near to the old Naptha works, close to where Roedean school now stands, on November 2, 1864 and was the first British record. It is in the Booth bird museum (BoMNH 207569).

Reed Bunting
Emberiza schoeniclus
The Reed Bunting is a common resident, passage migrant and winter visitor to the county of Sussex. They are seen on passage in the Ovingdean/Roedean area with all but three records coming from the autumn period. The peak count is of 11 birds all flying east on October 13, 2001 (IJW).

Corn Bunting
Emberiza calandra
The Corn Bunting is a fairly common but declining resident in the county of Sussex. They are a fairly common resident and winter visitor to the Ovingdean/Roedean area. With a peak count of 50 birds on April 12, 1993 (SOS).

Many thanks are owed to people that have helped with a contributions of records.
Records received from:
ITB Ian Barnard
KBG Kris Gillam
SOS Sussex Ornithological Society database
ADW Andrew Whitcomb
IJW Ian Whitcomb
PD Phil Dunk

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