As we reach mid-june the seabird colonies are at their peak with adults and chicks galore.
On the water a huge scattering of well over 150 Guillemots, many having a wash and tumble and recovering from the hectic life of a parent before flying back out to sea in search of more Sprats or Sand Eels for their hungry chick.
Form the cliffs, looking back along towards Durlston Head, the main ledge is visible, but this morning its southern end was almost empty of Guillemots - a result of the activity of the predating Ravens, who have consumed the young chicks, the adults therefore less inclined to stay on the cliff all day.
On returning to the centre, I was able to enjoy watching the small fluffy black and white chicks, which are mostly well hidden amongst the parents. – pop into the Castle to have a look.
Soaring around in large circles, three Fulmars, this magnificent bird gliding magnificently, the body like an undercarriage below its flat straight wings. As it closed in on the cliffs, a cackling was heard from a small nook another Fulmar was occupying. The flying bird spread it short pink legs, splayed it feet and turned, with a shimmer of its tail, such an enjoyable bird to watch!
A Razorbill was showing well, high up on the rock face, others can just be seen on the water.
A Shag was perched on the cliff, a yellow markings by its mouth and a greenish tinge to its colouration. From the boat on Friday night, we could spot a number of Shag nests with very well grown chicks balanced on outcrops and ledges. The young chicks have pale underneaths – both bellies and necks, an easy contrast to look for when they fledge and are alongside the dark parent.
The Herring Gull still seems to be sitting on a nest, can’t tell whether eggs, chicks or nothing is contained within. But the number of nests of this ‘common’ gull is lower here this year than in previous years.
Some lovely splashes of colour from Wild Thyme, Mallow, Kidney Vetch and Selfheal.
Walking back via the meadows a family of 5 Ravens were perched in the Hawthorn bushes, loudly croaking as I passed.