Frost, which would soon disappear, coated the picnic table tops and grassy patches. Nearby a hidden Chiff Chaff called as I headed for South Field. A few Cowslips were upon the meadow joining the cluster of Daffodil blooms. Amongst the Small Copse the Ash buds were opening to reveal florescence whilst those of Sycamore were less advanced. Amongst the carpet of Winter Heliotrope leaves were a couple of stems of Bluebell flowered where the sun could reach. Whist Skylark song rang out the cock crow of a Pheasant was brief. Another day of hearing a Green Woodpecker waffling was finally rewarded with a sighting. It was spotted perched upon vertical stems in soggy, Sycamore corner.
Looking over the upper gully a few Woodpigeons moved about what was only Holly and Ivy leaf cover. Both unseen Robin and Wren were heard near horseshoe bridge but only a male Great Tit was seen. However, soon a trio of Goldfinches rested in a tree. I am always tickle by the “rabbit ear” look bracts of upon Wayfaring Tree buds. Below the bridge Goat Willow was showing both leaves and “fluffy bunny tail” catkins. Two male Stonechat were seen upon the gully slope, the second only amongst Gorse flowers. Downslope below the rock face a male Bullfinch was spotted. A quartet of Carrion Crows passed through the Lighthouse complex, two having “beak cargo”. Also heading west was Greater Black Backed Gull over the sea. Silently a Raven landed to rest upon the lowest “naked pylon” before also flying west. Two pairs of Magpies also moved up the gully in the same direction.
That will have to do, a busy morning on my own. More / standby counter volunteers always welcome especially for weekends!