The air was heavy with drizzle as I walked around Durlston, the sound of a Robin filling the air. As I looked this red breasted bird was perched on one of the branches of the Silver Birch, while on the adjacent Dogwood, Great Tits were chatting, their calls loud this morning.
At the top of an Ash tree some Goldfinches twittered, the flock comprising at least 10 birds, a flash of golden yellow as they took to the air.
In the dense area of Holm Oak woodland, the sound of scurrying as Grey Squirrels were whizzing across the dead brown leaves, more anxious than usual because of the action of a Cocker Spaniel, not an owner in sight – please keep your dogs under close control, not chasing the wildlife.
Down on the clifftop the fog was thick, prompting me into the ‘Dolphin Watching’ hut, where I played the haunting sound of a Fog Horn on the wind-up sound system.
On the water below 50+ Guillemots bobbing, along with just one Razorbill amongst them. On the cliffs another 150 or more squashed onto the breeding ledge – not long now until live images are back in the visitor centre at the Castle.
A Fulmar was sat in a nook on the rocks, its white head showing well against the dirty brown & grey of the limestone, flying past two more of these majestic creatures, occasionally swooping close in, eliciting a cackle from the perched bird.
A Shag investigating the area, perhaps still looking for a suitable nesting spot, the greenish crest waving in the very gently breeze.
A Roe Deer spotted as it wandered up the gully, the dirty off white rump catching my eye, the rest of the creature well camouflaged against the backdrop of dead Bramble and Blackthorn.
A scattering of Daffodils, Snowdrops and Spring Crocus in bloom as well as the odd spike of Winter Heliotrope.
Last night in the gloom a Tawny Owl glided across in front of me, a flat face and silent movement.