After yesterday’s 7.0mm of rain the fields are once more wet and muddy, so most of my patrol was around the downs and clifftops.
Between the gusts of wind, the sound of a singing Dunnock could be heard, a thin weak song compared with the Robin and the Wren both of which were blasting in full voice.
A couple of patches of Spring Crocus, providing a pale lilac colour plus one single yellow flowered one, while a scattering of Daisies in flower amongst the short grass.
The high-pitched call of a Goldcrest could be heard from above the wind, as it perched near the top of the Elms.
In the hedgerow, the white flower heads of the Viburnum show against the dark green leaves, while the Cherry Plum is virtually ready to open up its delicate pinkish white flowers. This species of tree is the first spring to have blossom, before the Blackthorn whose buds are still tightly closed.
Above Lighthouse Field, where we have been concentrating our winter cutting, a Kestrel was hovering. As it was silhouetted above my head, the long tail was really evident, its body looking thin and wings varying from pointed to spread out fascinating to watch – it then it swooped away to hunt elsewhere.
Down to the cliffs where the Fulmars were in action, a fantastic opportunity to admire their antics and mode of flying. At least six, but very difficult to count as they were constantly on the move.
One glided along at eye height enabling me to look into its dark black eye, the mottled grey wings straight out, while its pinkish legs dangled below.
Flying up onto the cliffs were 5 Razorbills, landing on rock, their dark black plumage contrasting beautifully with the white chest.
On the water the chocolate brown Guillemots were bobbing while more than a hundred could be seen on the upper ledge