After yesterday’s first Orchid survey with the Wednesday work party, I was looking forward to my morning patrol. While surveying yesterday we sore all three Orchids, Early Purple, Green Winged and Early Spider Orchid. We were also treated to a Barn Owl swooping low over the top of field 3 before disappearing into the scrub, an unusual sight for the middle of the day. Its large creamy brown wingspan making it unmistakable. We were also treated to lots of Swallows seeing land after there long journey back to breed.
I head out through south field heading for the Hay Rake Quar. Once there I spot lots of Early Spider Orchids as well as some Early Purple Orchids. Amongst the orchids the tiny blue flowers of Chalk Milkwort can also be seen along with some bright yellow flowers of Birds-foot Trefoil. In the trees towards the back of the quar the sound of a Chaffinch could be picked out form the noise of lots of different birds. I then spot the bird hopping amongst the branches of a Blackthorn.
Along the ridge above the gully, the sunshine yellow flowers of Charlock adorn the tall stems of the plant. While in the ditch running alongside the path a small patch of Blue Bells can also be seen. Further along the fluffy lime green flower heads of Cross Wort pop of the long grass accompanied by Common Vetch with one singular bright purple.
Over the top of field ten to admire the stunning views over the light house, while accompanied by the constant melody of several Skylarks hovering above. I pass Wild Clary and even more Early Spider Orchids which seem to line the path down to the light house road. Back up the light house road where I spot one lone Swallow.