Where am I now? I thought I knew
Besieged by fog constricted view
The once familiar now estranged
So quickly circumstances changed
One landmark, one is all I need
For this confusion to recede
I find it, tried and trusty stile
And the fog ceases to beguile
A Song Thrush’s signature vocals peeled out from within the Wildlife Area as I passed this morning, singer hidden within the thick fog. I paused for a moment, taking in the sounds that would be near ubiquitous throughout my travels this misty morning.
Stooping down in field 34 I examined a pair of small brown mushrooms, their identity mysterious even with a view unhindered by the fog. If I was a betting man I’d wager they were Deceivers. They make a nice compliment to the Velvet Shank growing in our timber processing yard and the rich blooms of Turkey Tail in the Large Copse. I also came across a few patches of a slimy substance that might be a False Puffball Slime Mould, but that’s speculation.
As I continued through the moisture shrouded Meadows, more birds populated the rich soundscape around me. I must have passed at least half a dozen more Song Thrushes, as well as a kewik-ing Tawny Owl and chirping Blue Tits, plus a Wren that landed confidently mere metres from me on a tangle of Wild Clematis.
After nearly stepping on a Brown Mottlegill I turned my attention groundward, noting fresh petals of Herb Robert and young shoots of Common Vetch spreading their leaves. Fresh Rabbit droppings indicated some lagomorph activity as well. Thank you to our grazers for putting in the hours.
As I returned along the downs I spied the form of a Magpie, its black markings standing out in contrast while its white feathers blended in with the blotted sky. A Chaffinch had the good taste to sit in clear view atop a Blackthorn, singing its signature song in what might be the easiest ID I’ve ever made. Stepping down Lighthouse Slope, I became momentarily disorientated, my obfuscated surroundings no longer familiar. Nothing to do but keep going down, and down, and down……..