Some eagle-eyed residents have been recognizing the ‘flamboyant’ Hoopoe in a number of spots within the county over the previous week – together with Brighton and Hankham.
Polly Mair shared these gorgeous photographs, taken at Hankham, on X.
The sighting is especially thrilling for birdwatchers, as Hoopoes aren’t native to the UK.
Charlotte Owen, Communications Officer at Sussex Wildlife Trust, stated: “Hoopoes don’t live or breed in the UK but sometimes arrive here on their spring migration, when they accidentally overshoot their intended European destination.
“This makes them an exciting rarity for birders and wildlife enthusiasts, who now have an opportunity to see one of these flamboyant birds in the wild without travelling to France, Spain or further afield.
“As well as being rare, they are beautiful and distinctive birds with a very exotic appearance, especially when their impressive head crest is raised.
“They’re unlike anything else you can see here in Sussex, so it’s always exciting to spot one.”
1. Stunning photographs of uncommon chicken noticed in Sussex
Hoopoes in Hankham Photo: Polly Mair
2. Stunning photographs of uncommon chicken noticed in Sussex
Hoopoes in Hankham Photo: Polly Mair
