As I began my early patrol a loud screeching cry could be heard from above the Centre, as I looked up a Peregrine Falcon dropped into view continuing to cry loudly as it came nearer and then veered upwards again to float high above, I could hear this call for some time as I walked off towards the meadows.
The ground underfoot is still quite wet and muddy in places and full of footprints, the most noticeable (other than humans) were the slots of Roe Deer.
The song of a Chaffinch drew my attention to a very smart male which was perched near the top of a Blackthorn whose blossom was still tightly closed, while a little further along the hedgerow the Blackthorn blossom covered the bush.
The two-tone call of a Chiffchaff took over where the Chaffinch finished in the battle for the airways, but both were outshone by the glorious fluty song of 3 Skylarks. These beautifully marked birds were flying high in the sky, small dots against the blueness, proclaiming the different meadow territories as their own.
As I wandered across the downland a few of the small spring flowers are showing including the Hairy Violet, Common Whitlow Grass and in the sheltered spots Primroses are still in bloom.
The Gorse is now providing a swathe of yellow flowers, from which when out of the wind and in the sun the smell of coconut can be enjoyed. Perched on top of prickly spines was a small flock of Goldfinches, the gold, red, black and white flashing in the sunshine.
On the water at least 150 Guillemots were bobbing on the water, having left the main ledge empty. Many of these birds were gargling and growling to each other, while pairs of Razorbills were tapping beaks and floating very close together.
Zooming around in large circles were some Fulmars, their straight wings making them easily recognisable as they glided along, one was so close I felt as if I could see the tube nose and black eye markings with ease.
The sound of a Rock Pipit drew my eye to the rocks where 2 were displaying, as a huge Raven flew by.
On the cliff face behind Tilly Whim 3 Adders were again basking, all female enjoying the warmth of the sun.