A dull overcast and breezy autumn morning falls over the park this morning. heading through the car park the leaves from an Ash tree crunch under foot. While overhead more leaves continue to fall from nearly bare branches. The bright yellow of a lone Bristly Ox Tongue still in flower, catches the eye as I pass by.
Looking out to see a lone Gannet passes across Durlston bay, its large wings dipping down and nearly touching the water. The sound of rustling leaves on either side of the path fills the air, as Grey Squirrels search for Holm Oak acorns to berry and store for winter.
The frantic wings beat of Guillemots coming in and out of the cliffs make them easy to spot over the water. Eight sit of the water bobbing about on the rough waves. While over their heads, more poor in and out. Further round the large Guillemot ledge stands empty, though the Guillemots pouring in and out take up residence on the lower ledges.
Over the downs two Kestrels hover over the grass, looking for breakfast. A flock of seven or so Carion Crows dive on an unsuspecting passing Peregrine Falcon, which then makes a quick getaway.
Reaching the top of the light house road and looking out to see six more Gannets pass by all flying in unison. Over head a large flock of Goldfinch flutter past, the sound of there chatter filling the air. Form somewhere behind me the sound of a Wren calling can be heard, though the little bird can’t be seen. Heading back to the learning centre I spot a pale purple Scabious still in flower near the weather station.