Ness House is situated just to the north of Thorpeness. Thorpeness itself is almost a miniature headland and as such is a recognised spot for observing migration in Suffolk with many scarce and rare species being found. The cliff top at Thorpeness and Ness House provides an ideal vantage point for sea-watching.

The immediate countryside surrounding Ness House comprises heathland, woodland, farmland and coastal scrub. In addition, the reserves of Minsmere and North Warren are just a few miles to the north and south of Ness House.

The lists overleaf are a record of a species seen between Thorpeness Common and Dover House, including the heathland area known as Aldringham Walks, all within 20 minutes walking from Ness House. The classification of species (rare, common etc.) is based on sightings for the sea area; a species may be for example very rare at Ness House but very common in Suffolk – Coot being a good example!

All the photographs shown are displays from “the Ogilvie Collection of British Birds” at the Ipswich Museum.

The species listed below are occasional, common and very common migrants / visitors to the area. They can often be seen during a visit to Ness House and its surrounding habitats.