A walk from Birling Gap to Horseshoe Plantation and Cornish Farm

By David Beer

Eastbourne Local Members Group

Eleven members of the Eastbourne Regional Group met at Birling Gap having battled through thundery downpours. Almost immediately the sky cleared, an air of optimism developed and we set off towards Horseshoe Plantation. The low scrub was full of Goldfinches and Stonechats. The Goldfinches were grouped into small noisy flocks while the Stonechats perched nervously on the uppermost branches of the shrubs giving everyone a fine view. Small Heath butterflies danced on the short turf of the footpaths and a few Meadow Browns appeared in the longer grasses. At the far end of the plantation the brambles were bathed in sunshine and Speckled Woods, Commas and a Red Admiral were enjoying the warmth. 

Across the road and up the concrete track towards Cornish Farm two Whinchats perched obligingly on fence posts. A very smart Willow Warbler flitted in and out of a blackthorn bush and two Ravens were seen in the distance enjoying some aerial gymnastics. In a field planted with lucerne we saw a number of very bright Clouded Yellow butterflies flying vigorously against the breeze. The more eagle eyed members of the group also caught glimpses of Small Coppers and Common Blues. As we neared the farm and glanced out to sea the next squall could be seen heading our way. As we beat a retreat down the concrete track three Wheatears posed on fence posts and were joined by a single female Kestrel. A herd of cattle attracted the attention of half a dozen Yellow Wagtails who were seen feeding perilously close to their hooves. 

On the home stretch with the first spots of rain beginning to fall, a female Adonis Blue butterfly was spotted feeding on a scabious inflorescence. The heavens opened as we returned to our cars and we all remarked how fortunate we had been.