Arriving at Durlston the fog has descended on Durlston, after coming from sunny Poole. A much fresher feel after three days above 26c, making it officially a heatwave at Durlston. The highest temperature recorded was 31.3c – hot for a park that is influenced heavily by the cool English Channel. Additionally, Durlston also experienced two tropical nights, where temperatures did not fall below 20c on Tuesday and Wednesday. Today it looks as though the heatwave has ended, with maximum of 24c.
To the wildlife, through the fog, a Wren can be heard singing away, while on the car park verges Ox-eye Daisies, Birds-foot Trefoil, Selfheal, and Field Bindweed. Towards the castle road, a Crow and a Wood Pigeon are heard amongst the Holm Oak, Sycamore and Ash.
Heading left before the castle vegetation seen is Greater Horsetail, Red Valerian on the walls, Buddleia in bloom, Bracken taking over the verges, Hogweed, Black Mustard, Hawkweed Oxtongue, Bristly Oxtongue, Tamarisk, and Wild Carrot. While a Chiffchaff and Robin are heard towards the Pleasure Ground woodlands, and a Long-tailed Tit seen on route.
Passing the Globe and to the Observation Point, Creeping Thistle and Stinking Iris is seen, while the Guillemots and likely Razorbills are seen on the English Channel. Down on the rocks below the cliffs is a Cormorant, looking out into sea.
Walking onward, a Whitebeam tree, Agrimony, Lady’s Bedstraw, Ragwort, Teasel, Wild Thyme, and Greater Knapweed are seen. As well as, a Greater Black-backed Gull, Razorbills within the Guillemots on the English Channel, and a Swift that disappears into the fog. Heard was also a Whitethroat and Ravens.
Walking back up toward the learning centre, amongst the European Gorse, a Marbled White and Painted Lady butterfly are seen fluttering around.