A dry start to the day, though it didn’t last long – there was a bit of a squelch in my step by the time I got back to the Learning Centre, though it should blow over later.
A quick stroll ‘Round the Head’ to start the morning rounds. On Caravan Terrace, birds are starting to the sing as the sky gradually lightens, with Blackbird, Great Tit, Wren, Robin and Goldcrest all heard – making the most of the morning before the weather closes in. Once again, a splash of bright crimson among the scrub above the ledge reveals the presence of a Bullfinch – a little red flame to warm a grey morning!
Water trickles down the cliff face, among fresh leaves of Red Valerian and Cleavers, with new leaves of Great Periwinkle also starting to appear further round.
A Gannet passes by Durlston Head – his brilliant white feathers unmissable against a steely sea and sky, with a few Guillemots flickering past and Jackdaws cackling and squabbling over the Observation Point.
A noisy family of Long-tailed Tits are working their way along the Long Meadow hedgerow, where among the bare branches, the bright orange seeds of Stinking Iris and a few red berries of Bryony add touches of colour.
A Jay shrieks from the Holm Oaks overhead at Solent Road, sending a Grey Squirrel scrambling through the canopy.
On the woodland floor, fresh green leaves are starting to emerge, with the spikes of Spring Crocus and Snowdrop, fresh green ‘shields’ of Cuckoo Pint, ridged leaves of Primroses and ferny Cow Parsley leaves all seen.
A Tawny Owl, up well past bedtime hoots from somewhere near the Aviaries.
As I write, a pair of Blue Tits are checking out the camera nest-box just outside the office window, taking it turns to peer into a possible home, as the other keeps watch.