Last nights clear sky made for a fresh start to the morning. I was welcomed to the Country Park by a Robin singing from a Hawthorn tree and a Magpie flying across in front, the sun making its wings almost iridescent. Blue-tits, Wrens and Chiffchaffs were all amongst the car park hedgerows. The psithurism of Ash leaves overhead make a lovely calming noise as I enter the woodland.
The layer of Sycamore leaves on the woodchip path have dried giving a satisfying crunch underfoot. Overhead 8 Wood Pigeons fly inland, quickly followed by 10 Jackdaws. Two Chaffinches chatter to each other through the soft brown colours of the Bramble and Hawthorn, their appropriately Autumnal coloured dusty-red plumage blending in nicely.
Turning to the sea it was easy to spot a Gannet gliding close to land with the occasional flap of its long pointed black-tipped wings, they really do look quite large. Just as I was about to turn inland a Peregrine Falcon makes a marvellous entrance, soaring East at eye level above the cliffs, so fast I almost miss it.
Just as I am thinking the word ‘gentle breeze’ I am hit with a strong gust of wind in my face, quickly followed by 14 Goldfinches from behind, surrounding my view with golden flashes, made more prominent in the golden morning sun. Looking lost in the strong breeze a Red Admiral flies uncontrollably past.
I pop into Ox-eye Daisy Meadow to check on our lovely herd of Herefords who are now making their way around the meadows, playing an important role in our conservation work. They are all happily munching away at the fresh grass and Ivy. Some are hidden in the hedgerows, which are now adorned with Scarlet Rosehips, perfectly smooth Sloes, Juicy Blackberries, Crimson Haw Berries and the fluffy, soft, delicate spheres of Old Mans Beard. Delicate until your trying to remove it…
Also in the Park Siskins, Linnets, Meadow Pipets, Pied Wagtails, Goldcrests and the first Fire Crest for the Autumn.