A Pallid Harrier, a rare visitor from south-east Europe and Asia, spent some time hunting on the South Downs recently, getting local birders understandably excited.

The immature bird was seen quartering the fields near Cissbury Ring, being mobbed by crows as it looked for food.

The bird kept its distance from keen birders and photographers and, after just a day in the area, it departed, most likely heading back to the continent.

However, you never know, it might pop up again soon!

Photos: Tony Letchford