A thick band of stormy cloud across the sky, almost purple in colour and it delivered large sheets of rain, to make 30.4mm of rain in the last 24 hours. This sort of intense rain makes me dread walking the paths as it always brings up some sort of damage – and today was no exception!!
Catching the gust of wind a Jackdaw suddenly whizzed sideways in what looked to be a mistake! The Fulmars however appeared much more in control as they soared and glided in and out of the cliff in majestic fashion. The narrow wings of this bird divided by its chunky body and at times the short pink legs flapped or acted as brakes.
Below the sea was crashing into the cliffs, the spray bursting up and over the top in places, as more grey water topped with a white continued to arrive – just amazing to watch.
The large flash of gleaming white wings of a Gannets attracted my gaze, as these huge birds – our biggest seabird – skimmed just above the churning water, before rising slightly and then dropping again. The black tips also easy to see as it banked, as I enjoyed the view, I counted seven Gannets all heading westwards.
Despite the seas and strong winds the Guillemots were squashed onto the main ledge, well over a hundred standing upright occupying their tiny breeding territories.
Calling from the Bramble patch was a Wren, the loud burst of song a competing against the gusty sound of the wind, the average speed of which (as I write is) 36mph.
Having drawn my eyes away from the sea, I had to admire the power of the rain water which had cut itself a channel in the limestone path and washed the chippings into a thick pile at the bottom of the slope! – so unhelpful! – job for today to repair it.
Returning through the woods, a few small scattered branches, mostly Holm Oak, with clumps of leaves of the end, and Elm and Ash with Lichen growth.
A Blue Tit was making am effort to sing from the Dogwood, the yellow and blue bird perched amongst the reddish stems.