Due to the strong winds I set out to check for any tree damage. On the approach the Cuff bench a leaning Apple Tree had finally dropped lower and showed root place lift. We discussed propping the tree and diverting the path around it to the bench. At one-point windblown rain came in at forty-five degrees through a section of thinned cliff top tree cover. At the landslip Gorse, Buddleia and Willow violently sway in the wind beside the coast path. Indeed, a tendril of Bramble struck out at my head, some pruning required I noted! It was at long Meadow I found a nine-foot-long Ash limb having been split from its tree. It held both leaves and shiny black buds. Clear this morning was good for those plants setting seeds via the wind! The Horse Chestnut had several conkers only one of which displayed any spines. Nearby Dog Wood showed fruits and Rosehips were out. I thought this year I shall try to make a Rosehip liqueur rather than the complicated syrup.
Today has been set as Durlston’ s National Whale & Dolphin watch Day. Our volunteers are giving a day of effort despite rough seas, wind & rain. Jean reported a Peregrine Falcon whilst Angela mentioned there were lots of Shags and several passing Gannets. Sensibly they had sheltered in Dolphin Watchers Hut.
From the diagonal path a glimpsed at least four Gannets heading east mostly flying low over the sea. Meanwhile, a quartet of Herring Gulls circulated taking cliff side passes. On the verge near the walling centre a pair of Carrion Crow scanned the grassland. Walking through the path cut through Blackthorn to the weather station I was surprised to see a Gatekeeper emerge from the thorns.