Sunday 15th June at Mottistone
“Like the Red Arrows – only better”
That’s how one of the twelve members described this season’s Nightjar walk – and I couldn’t agree more! We were treated to a perfect evening: dry, clear skies and just a gentle breeze, ideal conditions for spotting these incredible birds. We walked to the end of the track and waited for the sun to dip below the horizon. Right on cue, the unmistakable churring of Nightjars began to fill the air. Then came the real show. A male Nightjar made several sweeping passes across the valley, giving us some spectacular views. As we made our way back we were greeted with more churring, the distinctive “coo-licking” flight calls, and several more flypasts with birds frequently circling us. At times, the birds seemed just as curious about us as we were about them! The grand finale? Three Nightjars zooming past in tight formation – a stunning display that left everyone grinning. A truly magnificent night.
Teresa Tearle
