As the sun rose above the horizon a pink hue was spread all across Durlston National Nature Reserve, making for a very pleasant patrol.
Off over the farmland where the paths are a little muddy but perfect it seemed for Blackbirds to find food as I was constantly disturbing these thrushes, many of whom are visitors from elsewhere in the country and across borders.
A clump of Old Man’s Beard has clambered and covered the Hawthorn and Blackthorn hedgerow in its long rope like tendrils, from within came the sound of a flock of birds. The noisy twittering and eventually the fleeting sighting saw House Sparrows while perched nearby on the top of a Willow tree were a couple of Goldfinches.
Skimming low in the distance was a Sparrowhawk, which I was able to watch as it travelled along, up and over the scrub landing on a lichen covered branch of an Oak tree.
As I opened the gate for the cattle, 3 Roe Deer were disturbed, the male turned to look and to show off his velvet covered antlers.
Towards the cliff the sound of seabirds wafted upwards with Guillemots galore and amongst them 12 Razorbills, 2 off which were still in the winter plumage the others all perfect in jet black with brilliant white front.
Soaring past were a few Gannets, gleaming in the sunshine, black wing ends contrasting with the glorious long white wings.
As I scanned the sea no sign of the Seal which has been seen on the last two days but do keep an eye out.
On the cliffs sat 2 Peregrines, their black moustaches and slate grey backs easily spotted, as they perched together the size difference could easily be seen.