The Adur SSSI was host to a party of Spoonbills recently, a rarity in these parts.

Five of these stunning birds dropped in, taking refuge from the battering winds which curtailed their journey west.

Their destination was most likely Pagham Harbour where they are more commonly seen, although most will fly south to wintering grounds.

Alas, these magnificent birds didn’t stay long but they did show well enough for a number of local birders to enjoy the spectacle.