Cheery Goldfinch chimes can be heard from all around this morning. We wander down towards Tilly Whim, soaking in the sunshine which beams down through the trees. We spy Great Tits and a Song Thrush atop the sunny yellow Gorse. Blackthorn has also now blossomed, it’s white flowers giving the appearance of a flurry of snow across the scrub.
No sign of Adders above the caves, but two Chiffchaff bob silently around the overhanging Tamarisk. More Goldfinch pass overhead as we turn eastward towards the sound of Guillemot trills. In the distance, we can see them crowding the ledges below a clattering of Jackdaws and looping flights of Fulmar.
We pause at the Observation Point to watch them flying to and from ledge; joining a raft mixed with Razorbills on the water. Lots of people about this morning, with many walkers and runners along the clifftop, and even a couple of Jet Skis on the water: The pair take a brilliant steady approach and get to enjoy the full colony of seabirds in all their glory.
A foray into the woodland reveals a budding Horse Chestnut sapling; its lower scales having opened to reveal the sticky bud inside. It appears quite ornate above the mass of Privet and Wild Madder.
Further down the woods, I notice a usually empty cavity in an old Elm Tree has been stuffed full of sticks. It will be an interesting to keep an eye on it, to see who’s made it, and if its being used.
A sure sign of spring, many Easter Bunnies have also been spotted around the park. You can pick up an Easter Trail guide from the Castle for £3 to help you find them along with Bunnies Burrow, the Carrot Arch, and the Egg Patch. Help solve the codes/questions and win a prize!