Today's weather: Cloud, dry cool breeze.
This morning I was joined our resident Artist / Curator for Purbeck Arts Week. Together we briefly explored the Common Ware / Gully area and cliff top. Alison declared “there is so much to take in – I feel like a rabbit in the head lights”.
On departing the Learning Centre a pair of vividly coloured (black heads and red breasts) of Bullfinches appeared a top the Blackthorn. We heard the now regular call of Chiff Chaff and observed Jackdaws on the wing and upon the ground. Near the Quarry we noted that our Early Purple Orchids, although some were still in flower still flower many have gone over. Earlier in the week I noted the vast range of yellow flowers out. Another to add today was that of Meadow Vetchling with elongate ovoid pointed leaves. However, the absence of Gorse Flowers, in the gully at least, surely does not mean as folklore suggested that “kissing is out of fashion”? We found a patch of wild Thyme on the edge of short grass and exposed soil.
Out at sea a floating object caught our eyes, only to be disappointed on discovering as being discarded polystyrene. Local fishing vessel PE1224 was empty of pots and plenty of markers were upon the sea. Sloop “Windrose” failed to live up to its name as it motored west without sail!
Initially the Guillemots were not obvious upon the water but broken rafts of thirty were to be seen (with only one Razorbill noted). It was difficult to see more than half a dozen birds on the ledge, however, there were plenty in flight. Other cliff residents include a pair of Fulmar, Herring Gull and one Greater Black Backed Gull very close to the Guillemot ledge.
In the gully we saw two Stonechats, several Great Tits and heard Whitethroats. Near the Centre Badger activity was suggested by a number of uprooted grass stalks and some burrowing for roots we assume. Despite the lack of warm sun Meadow Brown, Large Skipper and Painted Lady were seen on the wing and Hamish reported six Scoter at Sea, one singing Reed Warbler.