The sound of a yaffling Green Woodpecker began my early morning rounds, the laughter ringing out across the meadows as I checked on the water pipe leak.
Around me the remains of the flowers included Rough Hawkbit, Autumn Hawkbit, Red Clover, Pale Flax, Ribwort Plantain, Greater Knapweed, Field Scabious and on close inspection of the sword some dead heads of Common Spotted Orchids could be found.
Passing a patch of Blackthorn scrub sudden movement turned into 2 Chiffchaffs, 2 Blackcaps and a Wren, which then proceeded to blast it tune as I walked by.
On the front slopes of the downs where the 30 Herefords are grazing, emerging from the grass amongst their hooves was a Yellow Wagtail, as it flew up the colour could be seen, the high call heard and the typical undulating flight of a wagtail seen. The bird then settled back down with the cows.
On the top of the limestone cliffs a Peregrine Falcon perched, this amazing bird facing away so I was able to admire the pale slate grey feather colouration of its back. After watching the watcher for a while it took off gliding slowly along, just about at clifftop height enabling great views from on top, it then spun and headed out to sea disappearing against the clouds.
The sound of a Raven calling to another which was perched on the great vantage point at the top of the Mile Marker, the loud, low croak easily identified. Swooping through the air small groups of Swallows flashing dark and light as they moved.
The dry sunny morning encouraging a few butterflies out including Speckled Wood, Meadow Brown, Large White and on the deep purple flowers of the Buddleia a Red Admiral was basking.
Last night Pipistrelle Bats were flying along the rides at the edge of the woodland and hedges, while yesterday’s moth trap caught a magnificent Clifden Nonpareil, a large triangular moth, grey on top but with blue underwings – very spectacular and an unusual migrant from the continent.