Your birding, elevated

Great timing! Chiffchaffs are arriving across Sussex this week — and I can see you haven't logged one yet this year. Listen for their distinctive two-note song from treetops.

Sand Martins are also returning to local reservoirs. They're often the first hirundine back, so keep an eye on any open water.

They're easily confused, but a few key differences help:

Chiffchaff — duller olive-brown plumage, dark legs, bobs its tail constantly, and sings a simple repeating “chiff-chaff”.

Willow Warbler — brighter yellow-green, pale legs, cleaner supercilium, and a lovely descending warble.

At this time of year, song is the easiest way to tell them apart before the leaves are fully out.

That's a Kingfisher! The electric-blue back and orange underparts are unmistakable.

This would be a new addition to your life list — would you like me to save it as a sighting?