Oh as I go about the Downs a thousand jewels await
Stiped and skirted, frilled and gilled, they’re all sure to elate
My treasures are the Mottlegill, and bright Parrot Waxcap
And what that’s wrought by human hand’s more beautiful than that?
I was joined by our apprentice Cameron for my morning excursion. I busied myself with a quick reconnoitre of the Car Park as he readied himself to set out. I heard the distant cry of a Green Woodpecker, as well as the muffled chirps of a few Dunnocks against the persistent sounds of the wind. Blowing at this strength, it’s more felt than heard, the sound being in between a whistle and a drone, indefinable pitch that one is simply aware of. One thing I was not aware of till this morning was the fantastic Blushing Bracket growing on a Willow tree just opposite the front door of the Leaning Centre. Right under my nose this whole time.
As we expected the wildlife of Durlston was somewhat subdued in the continued strong wind. The odd Blackbird, Carrion Crow or Magpie could be seen on the wing and the calls of Chaffinches were occasionally audible. We arrived in Saxon Field we were drawn to the melody of a Song Thrush, performing from the heart of a mass of Blackthorn. Nearby on a stump of Elder several rather impressive Jelly Ear were growing, their pale nut-brown lobes unmistakable. After this find we headed up to the Downs, at which point I will pass you over to Cameron in his own words:
As we rounded the corner off the drove into field 3, we were treated to a sweeping view of the landscape; a grassy knoll featuring two Roe Deer hopping across towards the quarry. The pure white bottoms of these creatures proving to be a highlight of any day, however I always find myself wondering how on earth these animals all manage to squeeze into the hedgerows when they’re not busy looking gorgeous.
After this passing distraction we came across something far more interesting, a small cluster of Parrot Waxcaps that had me hopping with glee. Their amazing green-yellow colouration, extremely reminiscent of a parakeet or similar put a smile on my face that has yet to disappear. The world is full of treasures such as these, just lying their waiting to be found.