As an apprentice at Durlston, I feel like the luckiest person being able to work in such a beautiful place. Every day the landscape changes and I discover something new. I am constantly learning new skills and gaining a huge amount of knowledge from my wonderful colleagues and all our volunteers, of which I am most grateful for.
A light drizzle this morning was quickly blown away by a cold sea breeze. Two Roe Deer where seen basking in this morning’s sunshine. Down by the observation point a gentle breeze was blowing through the Holm Oak, rustling the tops of the tree canopy. A Stonechat flew past with a beak full of twigs, while another one sat on an Elm branch nearby. Looking along the cliffs west a Great Black-backed Gull sat on a small ledge, two Herring Gulls had made a nest, a perfect spot for us to watch them. Above two Fulmars glided on the wing and three Rock Pipits flew overhead. Below the lighthouse Thrift is starting to appear, soon to be in abundant along the bank.
The ever so distinctive cluck of a Pheasant came from the scrub below lighthouse road bridge, then appearing up on the hill it was quickly chased by a very inquisitive cow. The rest of the Hereford herd were happily grazing in the sun. A beautiful array of bird song this morning with calls from Great Tit, Whitethroat, Blue Tit, Chaffinch, Goldfinch, Blackbird and Song Thrush.
Yesterday was the first of this year’s Orchid count with a total of 1307 Early-purple Orchid, 634 Early Spider Orchid and 253 Green-winged Orchid counted over 2 fields. A fantastic effort from our volunteers who spent their morning busy counting these wonderful flowers. Next week will be similar with more Orchids to count around the park. Anyone who would like to join us we meet at the Learning Centre, 10am every Wednesday for 3 hrs including a tea and cake break!
Our fellow Dorset County Council apprentices are joining us today for some Dry Stone Wall training, if you find them around the park make sure you say hello!