Birdwatching at Rye Harbour (Day Trip)

Summary

Rye Bay supports a superb concentration of birds in all seasons; from waders and ducks in the autumn and winter months, to warblers, wagtails and terns in the spring and summer. The extensive gravel pit system and reedbeds are the main attraction to many of the birds which choose this area, and throughout the year, these habitats are alive with bird activity. 

Gravel pits support large concentrations of ducks with the potential of something interesting mixed in; Long-tailed Ducks, Goldeneye and Scaup occasionally are found in harsh winters. The area of Flat Beach has myriad waders present, especially Golden Plover, Lapwing and Dunlin, whilst fewer numbers of Grey Plover, Knot and Bar-tailed Godwit are also present. A walk onto the beach may reveal Sanderling along the shoreline and Linnets, Rock Pipits and Skylarks are also present. 

Time spent at the reedbeds on the northern part of the reserve may provide sightings of the elusive Bittern and Water Rail, but Marsh Harriers and Great White Egrets are far more conspicuous. Gull numbers also increase as the season progresses and may support small numbers of Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls too.