Corncrake

🔍 Overview

Rare passage migrant; formerly bred. A shy and elusive rail, the Corncrake is mostly extinct as a breeder in England, but rare passage birds occasionally turn up in Sussex during spring or autumn.

🪶 Key Identification Features

Size: Similar to a Moorhen (27–30 cm)

Plumage: Buff-brown with darker streaks; greyish face and breast

Wings: Warm chestnut-brown when flushed

Flight: Low and fluttery

🗺️ Habitat & Distribution

Rare in meadows, scrub, and reedbeds, especially at Seaford Head, Beachy Head, and Pulborough Brooks during migration (April–May, August–September).

🎶 Voice & Behaviour

Infamous rasping “crex-crex” call, repeated at night. Extremely secretive and rarely seen.

📸 Birding Tip

Unlikely to spot without hearing first. Listen for calls in dense vegetation during peak migration.