This morning’s patrol doubled up as a visitor observation and I was delighted to see so many volunteers involved this morning undertaking questionnaires as well as observations.
Carrion Cross and Jackdaws were most obvious in both numbers and vocals over the car parks. Swiftly “jingling” Goldfinches chattered upon passage overhead. Under the tree canopy amongst leaf litter a Woodpigeon set up showing its white wing bars. Elsewhere a related bird, a Rock Dove, appeared to drop like a rock as it descended the sea cliff face.
Blackberries were seen in both palatable and shrivelled form obviously the conditions in different locations effecting their state. Beside Long Meadow some of the Spindle berries had opened their rose pink jackets to reveal orange fruit within. These fruits were once baked to treat head lice on humans and mange in cattle!
A sweet scent rose from fresh pile of Woodchips delivered near the Aviaries. The familiar large leaved Laurel displayed oval berries whilst a small leaved variety still hid fruits in cases.
Near the Caravan Terrace Bridge thanks to recent clearance it was easier to see the activity of Great Tits and Robins. At trio of Blackbirds focused their activity about the Reynolds bench, whilst Wasps visited Ivy flowers. A Winter Gnat cloud fortunately hovered above my head whilst I passed the Globe steps. This morning a good forty plus Guillemots to be seen in their cave ledge.
Doug reported half a dozen Long Tailed Tits on his earlier patrol past the globe. Furthermore, inedible Glistening Ink Caps were papering in the woodlands.