Birds perched on an apple tree, it’s such a simple thing
They flutter to and fro, preen their feathers, sit and sing
It’s amazing to feel what peace of mind this spectacle can bring
Several Swallows were twisting and turning in the skies above the Learning Centre as I exited on my morning excursion, and I got and eyeful of sunlight as I followed their movements. That was a silly thing to do. Also seen were a Robin and a Wheatear, which I managed to spot without partially blinding myself.
Out on the meadows, Honey Bees were buzzing from flower to flower, and the air was thick with Meadow Brown butterflies. Appropriate. Sitting atop a Sycamore on Saxon Field was a Sparrowhawk, its striped chest showing proudly. After a few moments it took wing and set off across the skies.
Heading through Ox Eye Daisy field I heard then spied a Whitethroat sitting atop a Hawthorn tree. The Charlock that grows beside the gate has died right down. I suppose it couldn’t cut the mustard. The patches of Meadow Barley scattered around the path certainly seemed to be doing fine. Further along I spotted a small patch of Ivory Bonnet fungi growing atop a cow pat. A sight straight out of the Beano.
Tufted Vetch, Bittersweet Nightshade and Self Heal provided a pleasing array of purple my surroundings as I approached the Lighthouse. Sea Campion and Thrift were making a good showing still, with Rock Samphire and Sea Aster in bloom as well.
A Large White battled against the sea breeze on the clifftops. Sitting atop the Wild Apple and Pear trees were a small group of Stonechats, quietly creaking to each other as they hopped from branch to branch. Maybe they’re from London? Regardless, it was yet another of those little Durlston moments that’s wonderfully restful to the mind.