Book shows importance of Arun to various species of bird

The Birds of Sussex, released by the Sussex Ornothological Society, is described as a ‘once-in-a-generation’ survey looking at the habits of birds in the county.

The book is based on the analysis of more than two million bird records collected over more than 50 years and highlights the importance of the Littlehampton to Seaford coast, as well as the appeal to birds of Arundel and Amberley.

The coast between Littlehampton and Seaford is described as an important migration route for thousands of seabirds, geese, ducks, wading birds, skuas, gulls and terns, especially in spring.

While Arundel and Amberley Wild Brooks are considered by the book to be ‘one of the best areas for wild birds in Sussex, with internationally important numbers of wild ducks, especially wigeon, pintail and teal’.

The 600-page book took 18 months to compile and is the work of a large team of Sussex volunteers, including the editor, writers and photographers.

It includes images taken by 40 Sussex birdwatchers that illustrate the diversity and beauty of the county’s wild birds.

Adrian Thomas of the RSPB, who edited the book, said: “Our wild birds tell us so much about the state of our county. In front of our eyes, new birds are arriving as our environment is changing or as some species claw their way back after centuries of persecution. But, sadly, so many of our once-common birds are in serious decline.”

The book costs £35 plus postage and packaging, but non-members of SOS can take advantage of a special ‘membership and book’ offer.

For more information, visit www.sos.org.uk