Up with the lark this morning to listen to the gorgeous sounds and songs of the birds.
My highlight was the scratchy song of a Common Whitethroat as this recently arrived migrant exercised his chords after the long flight from Africa, (only my second Whitethroat, the first was yesterday). The Whitethroat was perched on the top of a clambering mass of Old Man’s Beard, the performance ruffling up the white band on his neck as he sang.
In the distance as a constant accompaniment was the beautiful song of Skylarks, at least 3 different ones singing from above.
Suddenly the burst of reeling caught my attention, this being the calling of a Grasshopper Warbler, despite listening intently and watching I was unable to spot this elusive bird. The first Cuckoo of the year also reported the call unmistakable. While skulking in the bushes a female Redstart, and 10 Wheatears on the fields.
The numbers of Early Spider Orchids across the downs is impressive, 150 counted without even trying! Some are in perfect condition with deep brown furry bodies and bright purple shiny eyes.
Gazing out from the top of the hill, across the meadows is also a wonderful sight as both Ox-Eye meadow and Johnston Meadow are thickly carpeted with yellow Cowslips.
Landing amongst the blossom of the Blackthorn was a flock of 6 Linnets, the delicate pink chest noticeable as they faced me. The blossom on the Wild Apples and Wild Pears is quite impressive this year, and hidden amongst this pale white and pink was a male Blackcap which I wouldn’t have noticed if it hadn’t started to sing!
The sunshine yesterday brought out Wall Brown, Holly Blue, Speckled Wood, Small Tortoiseshell and Peacock butterflies.
On the cliffs the Guillemots are on the ledges with 302 counted through the camera this morning – hopefully these images will be available in the Castle and on the website soon – currently we have technical issues!