Two, four, six then eight Goldfinches gathered near the centre before Hannah & I entered the wildlife garden. Therein some eight docile Palmate Newts were sat in the pond on a chill morning. Fresh sprigs of fresh Water Mint protruded trough the pond surface whilst small Waterlily pads floated upon it. Both Speedwell and Ground Ivy flowers bloom near the pond fringe. Unexpectedly, three female Slow Worms were found underneath a reptile sheet, none of which were warm enough to move. Wayfaring Trees were seen in flower then looking into South Field most of the thorns held leaves whilst Sycamore and Ash (Small Copse) were still bare. From the Copse canopy a Carrion Crow called out. At the meadow edge an Elder flowered, whilst a Branching Lichen showed spore “saucers” upon its branches. Both old and fresh bud clusters were upon Honeysuckle. We were to find both Horseshoe Vetch and Birds Foot Trefoil holding flowers, the latter more delicate and upon harsher ground. Both Greenfinch and Whitethroat were heard as the Apple Blossom within a quarry hollow was admired. Several Stonechat pairs were seen, and much chatting heard about the gully.
In short turf below the measured mile markers small “ping pong” size Stomach Fungi were noted whilst a black Ground Beetle crept past. A Lesser Bloody-nosed Beetle would also be seen. Upon the sea off Tilly Whim was first one then another pair of Razorbills. Cave occupancy was such that fourteen Guillemots perched upon the sloping boulder. Inland beside the coastal bedrock steps plenty of Kidney Vetch was amongst the short and tufted turf.