Finches, Finches everywhere, so let’s all have a listen
They line the treetops up above, beneath them dew drops glisten
A bright and sunny morning today, a very pleasant start to a trip around the park. A chorus of three Goldfinches was sounding across the car park, as well as the background squeaks of Great Tits and cheerful Robin song.
Head Ranger Katie Black had been out and about before me and reported a pod of 15-16 Bottlenose Dolphins heading west past the lighthouse. One of them, a youngster, was performing some impressive jumps. I was very disappointed to have missed them.
I got an excellent crisp view of Old Harry Rocks as I walked to Small Copse, where the loud calls of a Chaffinch were emanating from the canopy. I heard several more of the birds calling as I crossed Saxon Field, they were out in force today.
I had the pleasure of being serenaded by a Song Thrush, hidden deep inside a patch of scrub. As I approached to try and catch a glimpse of it, it took flight and disappeared into the gulley. Better luck next time.
Crossing Lighthouse Green I Startled a pair of Rock Pipits who were alighting on the bank beside the foghorn. On seeing me they shot over the cliff edge, quick as a flash.
Passing Tilly Whim caves a Fulmar was gliding east parallel to the cliffs, very precise in its movements and trajectory. It was followed moments later by a Shag, somewhat less elegant in its flight.
The Guillemot ledge was well occupied today, as was the floating raft. I attempted to make a count, but the glare from the sun on the ocean prevented me from getting a good view with my binoculars. Suffice to say there were quite a few. Overhead a flock of Jackdaws circled, accompanied by a single Raven. No binoculars were necessary to spot them.