It’s a lovely warm start at Durlston with the morning Sun alighting the fresh green leaves that have emerged upon the Hawthorns. The last of red haws adding to a mosaic of colour - completed by the beautiful Blue Tits which bob between the branches, flashing their feathers blue, yellow, and green. I count at least five of them in one tree, but even more birds echo their calls back to them from the surrounding trees.
To the left, a stand of Blackthorn is thickened with white flowers. With the leaves yet to appear, it gives the appearance of being frosted with snow. Flies and Hoverflies buzz around the branches as they are drawn into drawn into early season offering of nectar and pollen.
A little further towards the woods, a chorus of bird song is heard: the gentle Blackcap song, continuous chirping Chiffchaff, and loud ringing Wren. Passing a copse of Holm Oak, the soft Firecrest whistles are repeated, a short sequence that builds in intensity, both in tempo and volume.
In the woodland, fresh drooping Horse Chestnut leaves add another layer of green into the landscape, joining that of the Elder, and Willow adorned with catkins. The ground flora awakens with fresh scatterings of Garlic Mustard, Stinging Nettle, and Wild Arum. Some fresh patches of Willowherb have appeared around the headland, Danish Scurvy Grass in flower, and purple Mallow beneath the Globe.
I could watch the flight of Fulmars for hours as they glide loop to and from the cliffs, steady wings outstretched and pale pink feet flailing behind. Rafting Guillemot, Razorbill, and Shag on the water below.
Also on the cliff edge, a Meadow Pipit. It chirps perched upon rocks before taking flight, sailing through air, and versing through its song as it cascades out of sight. Kestrel and Raven heard as I depart back to the office. Hamish reports Marsh Tit, Yellowhammer, and Hobby.