A Spring Morning with the Common Whitethroat at Hayling Island Oyster Beds

On the 3rd of May 2025, I spent a few peaceful hours exploring the Hayling Island Oyster Beds—a fantastic spot on the south coast for spring birdwatching. The area was alive with bird song, and I was lucky enough to photograph one of my favourite seasonal visitors: the Common Whitethroat.

These small, energetic warblers are a real treat to observe. Full of life and constantly on the move, the Common Whitethroat rarely stays still for long. I watched as this particular bird flitted through the low scrub, occasionally pausing to sing from the tops of the bushes. Their scratchy, melodic song is a sure sign that spring has truly arrived.

Photographing such an active bird definitely tested my reflexes, but it was worth every moment. Capturing the delicate details of its plumage and the lively expression in its eyes was incredibly rewarding. Encounters like this are exactly why I love wildlife photography—there’s nothing quite like the feeling of connecting with nature through the lens.

Hayling Island Oyster Beds continues to impress me as a birding hotspot. Whether you're after coastal species, waders, or smaller songbirds like the Whitethroat, it's a location that delivers time and again.

Take a look at the shots below and let me know what you think—I always enjoy hearing your thoughts and feedback.

Happy birding!