A very autumnal feel to the early rounds, with the sky a steely grey and a fine drizzle gusting across the Park. The meadows squelch underfoot, while many of the paths in the woodland are carpeted with gold and orange leaves.
The skies overhead are bustling with activity, as birds gather into flocks, in preparation for the long journey ahead. The ‘bubbling’ calls of Goldfinches fill the air for much of my walk, with flocks of crimson and gold birds swirling in constant motion. Autumn migration always seems take place in waves, with lots of Swallows and House Martins also on the wing after a quiet few days.
The rather plaintive flight calls of Siskin also heard in large numbers this morning, with Redpoll and Meadow Pipits also on the wing.
A Buzzard wheels above the treetops in Durlston Bay, with a Sparrowhawk hugging the canopy as he searches for prey, with a Kestrel hanging in the air above the Learning Centre.
In the scrub and hedges, Chiffchaffs, Blackcaps, Long-tailed Tits, Blue and Great Tits, Robins and Wrens are all busy looking for breakfast. A small flock of Goldcrests work their way along the woodland edge near the Castle, as a Dunnock shuffles through the leaf litter below.
Also seen, a Green Woodpecker bobbing along above the Lighthouse Field, with Gannet, Shag, Great Black-backed Gull, Common Gull, Shag, Cormorant and an Oystercatcher passing the cliffs.
A Raven flaps along near the mile markers, splitting the air with his harsh croaks, with lots of Jays seen among the Holm Oaks. Grey Squirrels are also busily stashing away acorns, while Badgers having been digging up the softer paths in search of food.
Still a few plants in bloom, including Rough Hawkbit, Bristly Ox-tongue, Dandelion and Knapweed. Plenty of colour from berries and seeds, including Bittersweet, Bryony, Madder, Dog Rose, Stinking Iris and Hawthorn.
Also sighted today were two Short Eared Owls.