Cloud like patches of wind-blown rain drifted across the car park and down long meadow. Meanwhile, puddles on the car park surface shimmered and rippled in the wind. A Green Woodpecker flew up from Long Meadow a passed the picnic area Silver Birch. Being leafless the tree revealed a good half dozen “Witches Burrs” amongst its branches. Standing out of the wind beside an Ash rainfall dripped down its libs and trunk.
Today from Rest & Admire there was no view beyond Peveril Point. At the foot of undercliffs white water whipped at the fringe of Durlston Bay. Thank to recent works there was a clear view from the coast Path across the dell, but only a Wood Pigeon braved the scene. Both Tamarisk and Holm Oak were wind shaken at the observation point. Here a recent cleared drain pipe through the cliff top wall had a pool of water which was being held back by the wind. Above the coast path Herring Gulls and Great Black Back Gulls gentle travelled west. A pair of Shags rode the waves off Tilly Whim. The ledge itself was drench as waves spray rose up. Looking back to the east less than ten Guillemots were in the cave ledge and gradually they were seen to depart. It was possible that those birds which left the sea cliffs a little higher up were Razorbills.
The strength and direction of the waves were perfect for the Blow Hole. Energetic spouts of spray and frothy foam shot forth. Nearby a Rock Pipit was heard. I walked up between the protection of the green gully mouth slopes, without a winterbourne being present. Several yellow Goatsbeard flowers were out despite the grey sky.
On the opposite side of the gully rock face only Woodpigeon passed by a Sycamore. Unlike the Sycamore an Apple held onto a dozen leaves. One Carrion Crow held it position facing into the wind, but another called and they both headed inland. One Ox Eye Daisy flower had curled its petals in as if forming a fist. Gully Blackthorn was decorated with purple Sloes, Branching Lichen and Ivy leaves. An unseen Wren trilled out of sight. Beside Lighthouse Road both Honeysuckle and Privet showed leaves from their Blackthorn scaffold. At the Weather station both the funnel and cup had blown from their hosing so no rainfall measure today!