Down to the clifftops where a constant flittering and twittering of Swallows and Sand Martins was to be found, as they headed eastwards across the downs and clifftops.
The dark collar of the Sand Martins visible as they flew overhead, while the Swallows showed the longer tail and wings, always a lovely sight although the numbers are still small at present and will build up over the next couple of weeks.
Running ahead of me across the short brown turf was a Wheatear, this upright bird extremely well camouflaged, disappearing from view, even though still in plain sight! Only when it flashed its white rump did it become very conspicuous.
A flash of brilliant blue on the ground, like a jewel in the sunshine was an Adonis Blue butterfly, as it basked, for once it was easy to concentrate on its crisp markings before it warmed and took flight.
A little later more butterflies were spotted including the Small Heath, the tan upper-wings contrasting with the grey lower ones. Also a bright Wall Brown, helpfully on a piece of Purbeck Limestone, allowing the beautiful pattern to be seen. However the most numerous butterfly of the morning was the Clouded Yellow, golden yellow in flight, but more green when it perched with its wings closed.
It has also been a very good year for Hummingbird Hawk-moths, one of which I have just removed from the office!
While fixing a water trough the sound of Skylarks calling overhead mad me look up to see a small flock, while form the Gorse patch a Stonechat was chatting.
All these ‘distractions’ making my patrol take longer than planned, but still time to stop to watch a Roe Deer slowly walking across ahead of me, the sun catching its fur.
A mat of Creeping Cinquefoil caught my eye, amazing what you walk past everyday without noticing!
Why not join our Guided Walk, this afternoon 2.30pm from the Castle, no need to book.