It has finally arrived, the Winter Solstice; a day which celebrates the lengthening of the hours between dawn and dusk, a returning to the longer days of sunshine. The birds, I feel, know that this shift is approaching. They have been out, calling their joy to one another, long before dawn began to mark the horizon.
The park, this morning, is coloured in its usual winter greens and browns, but if you look closely, splashes of colour can be found: the creamy flower heads of Yarrow and Verbena, bright purple crowns of Knapweed, and the occasional splash of orange from Stinking Iris seed heads.
As Katie and I set out on our walk, little could be seen, but much was heard. Among this morning’s chorus were Bullfinches, Blackbirds, Herring Gulls, Great Tits. That all changed as we crossed the fields headed towards the coast.
Overhead, a small clattering of Jackdaws soared, drawing our eyes across the field and out to the calm, grey sea. Surrounded by the muted colours of cloud and fog, Round Down stood green and proud, boasting an array of wildlife in its craggy gully. Grazing amongst the bracken were three Roe Deer, and one of the earlier Jackdaws chattering from the coast path gate, its friends branched in a nearby tree. A bright spark of scarlet announced a spray of Cotoneaster, and a Magpie tottered amidst the grass.
Next door, in Lighthouse Field, the Hereford Cows were spread along the hilltop enjoying their breakfast, their earthy scent reaching out to us over the breeze. A Pheasant shot out of the underbrush, startling, as we searched for the source of the Song Thrush call.
The morning’s low light drew me to the bright yellow-green of lichen, spreading along the white bone fingers of the Elder branches. Upon reaching the Quarr, we passed a couple, quietly talking, sharing a flask of coffee, and enjoying the stillness of the day.
Returning to the Learning Centre, a bright purple gift dressed with blue ribbon sits upon a wall – a happy reminder of the Christmas Trail running throughout the park. A festive experience for families until New Year’s Day. The joy on children’s faces as they hunt down the presents and work through the puzzle is enough to bring the festive spirit in everyone.