Arum leaves already had some holes and signs of nibbling, presumably due to insect larvae. A delightful splash of Blackthorn blossom was found beside Rest & Admire. Goat Willow catkins were in “fluffy rabbits’ tail” and opening flower states. Approaching the Dell one walked into a chill breeze. One Magpie chased another, was it friendly or defensive? Autumnal Rosehips were found beside fresh Sycamore buds. Cauliflower like flower heads of Wayfaring Tree were spotted near the Durlston Head, which had a variety of gulls passing heading east. The invasive Greater Periwinkle flowers nevertheless brought a welcome splash of blue below the Globe.
A quartet of Fulmar were active off the cliffs whilst some one hundred fifty birds rafted upon the sea. I counted to a dozen Razorbills only to be interrupted by a Peregrine Falcon calling as it flew east. Meanwhile, the Mohican indicated it was a Shag that joined the raft of Guillemots upon the sea. There was a definite pair of Great Black-backed Gull and Herring Gull snuggled upon the cliff face.
I was disappointed that despite the sun I found no Adders at Tilly Whim steps, the diagonal nor the Goat Plot. A pair of Kestrels flew east, together, along the cliff top. Of course, Jackdaws and Feral Doves were also active beside the sea.
I went into the Goat Plot Extension; an unidentified butterfly was seen in flight. Hoverflies, Solitary Bees and Bumble Bees were also active. I found fresh leaves of Hemp Agrimony having emerged. Many breast feathers suggested a Peregrine Falcon had caught a Feral Dove recently.
Despite cattle hoof poached clay being dry I still stumble over the firm but irregular dry clay. It struck me as being rather early, but there was Common Toadflax leaf whorls already beside the downland road.
Yesterday, I saw recent images of three Puffins upon the sea off Dancing Ledge!