Birds in West Sussex
Explore 211 species found in this region.
West Sussex is home to an impressive 207 recorded bird species, reflecting the county's rich diversity of habitats — from the chalk downlands of the South Downs to the coastal mudflats and harbours of Chichester and Pagham. Birdwatchers can enjoy sightings ranging from familiar garden visitors like the Great Tit and Magpie to scarcer species such as the Great Grey Shrike and the elegant Northern Pintail. The county's wetlands, woodlands, and estuaries make it one of the most rewarding birding destinations in southern England.
Visiting in April? Look out for Arctic Jaeger and Common Redstart arriving this month, and Black-necked Grebe and Brambling depart for the season.
Showing 208–211 of 211 species
Yellow Wagtail
Motacilla flavaLC
An uncommon breeding visitor to lowland wet meadows and arable fields, arriving in April and departing by October.
Apr–Oct
Yellow-browed Warbler
Phylloscopus inornatusLC
A rare autumn passage migrant from Siberia, occasionally turning up in coastal scrub and bushes, mainly in October.
Oct–Dec
Yellow-legged Gull
Larus michahellisLC
A rare passage visitor seen among other large gulls from July to October. Check coastal roosts and tips for this southern European species.
Year-round
Yellowhammer
Emberiza citrinellaLC
An uncommon resident of farmland and hedgerows, declining across the county. The male's bright yellow head is unmistakable.
Year-round