Thousands of miles
Welcome rest for weary wings
Summer lands ahoy
I was rather satisfied with my decision to wear trousers rather than shorts today, with the strong easterly winds making for a chillier start to the day!
A Wheatear was spotted down at the Globe this morning, likely landed on the headland following it’s crossing over the channel. This may sound impressive for such a small bird, but in fact just covers the final step of a long migration route from their winter feeding grounds in Africa each year.
Sunny yellow Cowslips are popping up across the meadows, along with the distinctive Early Purple Orchids. Look a little bit closer and you’ll also see the green and brown Early Spider Orchids camouflaged low against the ground. I spotted many on walk through Saxon, Ox-Eye, and Lighthouse Fields – you have to watch your step!
On the open ridge above the lighthouse, cold winds blew right through my fleece, tempting me to resist a walker further down to the cliffs. But I persisted, following the direct soar of a Kestrel as I clambered directly down over the hill. The metal ladder of the mile marker post clanging loudly above my head as it rattled in the wind.
The sea was rough. Messy waves rolled in and crashed against the cliffs. Fulmars battled against the gusts, whilst Guillemots and Razorbills paddled together in rafts on the water. Two Gannets were also spotted out to sea.
Although we’re only halfway through April, a flurry of Mayflowers adorn the hedgerows, from the blossoming Blackthorn and emerging Hawthorn bloom. A charm of Goldfinches jumped around the edge of a nearby water trough, whilst a Pied Wagtail bobbed amongst the turf below.