This morning the wind had noticeably picked up since yesterday, especially on the westward slopes, This made for a chilly walk down towards the lighthouse where a flurry of Jackdaws danced around the beacon. I didn’t spot any Adders on their usual perch above Tilly Whim, so perhaps they were feeling the chill too! Water could be heard dripping from the entrance to the cave, echoing from deep down in the darkness.
On the water about sixty Guillemots and a few Razorbills were scattered in a loose raft, whilst many more were packed on their ledge. Six Guillemots could be seen perched on low rock, which was just poking out of the water against the base of the cliffs.
As if to land, a pair of Fulmars repeatedly flew towards a favoured spot on the higher reaches of the cliff, before bailing the landing at the last second, and repeating the circular swoop. I watched them for a while, until they finally did land and could been seen displaying their unique courtship display. Facing each other, they open their bills wide and roll their heads side to side in a kind of dance. Fascinating to watch!
Walking up past the timeline, recent clearance in the dell have revealed a fantastic view to the old stone bridge next to the castle. Three Squirrels and a Bullfinch seemed to approve of the work as they scavenged through the ground Ivy and fallen leaves. A couple of Wrens could be heard hidden in a nearby pile of logs. It struck me what amazingly loud birds they are, for such a small creature!
In the woods the first signs of spring were beginning to emerge, as noisily discussed by the Robins, Great Tits, and Blue Tits above my head. Daffodils, Crocuses and Three Cornered Garlic could be seen sprouting amongst the undergrowth. Hazel catkins were beginning to go over, whilst their tiny pink flowers were budding into leaves.