Basking on the map of southern England, of which Swanage is the centre (to be found on the wall of the Castle), was a Wall Lizard, the long tail and bright green colouration reflecting in the sunlight. Another skitted along the limestone nearby, this introduced species seems to enjoy living around this Victorian building.
The ‘Dell’ illuminated by a variety of Hydrangea and Fuchsia flowers, along the banks Mock Orange is growing, while pink and white Dog Roses can be seen amongst the Hawthorn and flower laden Elder bushes.
Splashes of bright pink from Red Valerian growing out from between the stone layers of the wall, while Hogweed, Herb Robert and Stinking Iris are occupying the understory, where the winding stems of field Bindweed and Honeysuckle can also be found.
Down on the clifftops the sound of Guillemots as they turned over in the water as they splashed and washed, growling coming from the packed ledge. Some dark black Razorbills easily spotted in this mornings light, often they blend in much better.
A flock of Herring Gulls and Black Headed Gulls bobbing on the water while the cry of Sandwich Terns heard as they flew, before diving into the water in their search for breakfast – hopefully for their chicks growing up over in Poole Harbour.
A fantastic sight of a Gannet, flying so close in, I was able to see the yellow head and almost blue beak as it flew past, its white wings gleaming. Suddenly the wings pinned to the body and this bird dived with great velocity head first into the water, the loud plop and swoosh heard as it did so. The Gannet popped up a few metres away, while a deep blue vortex was left in the water showing where it had torn though.
Off up the hill where Kidney Vetch is providing a thick carpet, but my attention was drawn to a gorgeous pink Bee Orchid, as I looked another 45 popped into view – amazingly easy to miss entirely!
A singing Robin accompanied by Goldfinches, Lesser Whitethroat and Chiffchaff added to my morning.