The early darkness lifted by the sight and sound of a Skylark, as it rose from the meadow to hover just above, before dropping again, disappearing from view, amongst the grasses.
A Roe Deer wandered across ahead of me, pausing to look before continuing on its way, the coat looking dull brown-grey, blending in very well with the hedgerow and scrub around.
Swishing along the coastline was a group of Swallows, perhaps plucking up the courage to turn left and head across the channel and to Africa.
While attempting to avoid the worst of the vicious darts of rain drops being blown at me, I took the opportunity to look at the winter work. Some of the cutting of small Gorse regrowth on the downland slopes has taken place, but more still to do, the work party will be there again this Wednesday helping us clear away the prickly cuttings.
We will then me moving to do some hedgerow and scrub cut back, to help keep the footpaths usable and keep the internationally important limestone grassland in good condition. There are also some dry-stone walls being rebuilt and some gates being improved so they are easier to get through and open/close.
On the downs some great examples of Parasol mushrooms, with the ring on the stem and flecked cap, also Field Mushrooms and Field Blewitt plus a Puffball spotted.
A group of 30 or so Wood Pigeons clapped loudly as they moved southwards as part of their migration, many charms of Goldfinches and a few Chaffinches also noted.
A flock of Redwings flew overhead as I returned from my patrol, against the dark grey sky, they were difficult to identify, except for the flash of red under the wing when one came lower and closer, a sudden burst of sunlight then caught the flock giving colour and markings.