Many miles in the making, the wind calls waves to rise
Swelling forming and then breaking, they each meet their demise
Vaporised upon the shore, the waves are still not spent
Carried by the wind once more, sea spray makes its ascent
A powerful wind was blowing across Durlston today as I set out on my hunt for fungi. I was hoping that the patchy rain over the last couple of days had worked its magic and I was not disappointed. As I made my way down the Woodland path to the Castle, eyes glued to the ground I first spotted some Dog’s Vomit Slime Moulds. Not actually fungi I know, but they thrive in similar conditions so a very good sign. I then came across two Mystery Fungi, identities soon to be confirmed. Next was a little patch of Glistening Ink Caps, the light glitter like dusting atop them a clear signifier.
Passing a few tufts of Oakmoss growing on the trunks of the trees bordering the path I emerged out by the Castle and immediately began admiring a third Mystery Fungi atop a stump by the bird cage. I was a little disappointed with my performance at this stage, as I appeared to have about a 25% success rate at identification. As ever, there is so much to learn.
I continued over the cliffs, the ceaseless calls of Goldfinches filling the air above. Rounding Durlston Head, I was slapped hard by the wind and forced my way along past the Great Globe, marvelling at a Teasel blooming near the steps up. A little late to the party, don’t you think?
A Peregrine Falcon was soaring in the high winds by the Observation Point, occasionally diving out of view when a few Jackdaws broke off from their flock to mob it. It looks like the best defence really is a good offence.
Down by the Tilly Whim Caves I made my way down to the Gulley, timing my dash across the bottom to avoid the clouds of spray being thrown up by the waves as they crashed against the shore. Out by the lighthouse there were still a few Carline Thistle around, as well as a solitary bloom of Kidney Vetch. Another guest who must have misread the time on the invitation.
Other notable sightings in the park today include Goldcrests, spotted by Katie and the Hume’s Leaf Warbler, again to be seen down in Caravan Terrace. Get it while it’s hot folks.