Seaford Natural History Society
Autumn Wildlife in Seaford
It has been a busy few weeks for members of the Seaford Natural History Society who have been excited by infrequent visitors. A huge Bearded Vulture with a wingspan of 275cms, was spotted in midOctober, dwarfing the crows mobbing it. Birdwatchers flocked to Seaford Head to spot rare warblers as squadrons of swallows and martins gathered for migration, whilst Convolvulus Hawk Moths, one of the biggest moths to be seen in the UK, with wingspans of 12cm, have been blown in from across the Channel. No less exciting is the wildlife that can be seen regularly around Seaford at this time of year. For example, at Splash Point the Kittiwakes have left but Herring Gulls and Great Black Backed Gulls feed on the beach whilst Rock Pipits peck un-noticed around people’s feet on The Shoal. Little Egrets and Cormorants hang out on and around the chalk stack and seals and dolphins have been seen just offshore. Meanwhile Friston Forest abounds with mushrooms and toadstools such as the Earthstar and Common Inkcap, following the wettest start to October since 1982.
Animals, Wildlife Photography and Barn Owls, whilst preparations are in hand for the summer programme. New members are always welcome to join us in these Zoom sessions: Membership details from Richard Mongar (richardmongar@btnternet.com). Photos from top left clockwise: Great Black Backed Gull; Rock Pipet; Convolvulus Hawk Moth; Grey Seal. Photos by Ann Roe and Jim Howell.
The Society has adapted to Covid-19 restrictions and continues to discuss and observe both the ordinary and extraordinary natural history around Seaford. Members have continued throughout this time to observe and record the wildlife around us. Our regular summer walks were replaced by publication of a series of local nature trails that guided members around places of interest, such as Southerham Nature Reserve and Cradle Valley. The regular winter talks now take place over Zoom, and have recently covered the life of the Orange Tip butterfly and the conservation of chalk grassland. A regular newsletter is circulated to members to keep them abreast of the latest wildlife news. If, as seems likely, Covid-19 restrictions continue into next year, the SNHS is ready to provide a full and lively programme. In the next few weeks we will host Zoom sessions, talks on topics as varied as Extinct To advertise in Seaford Scene please call 01273 710793 or email fran@seafordscene.co.uk
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