Yesterday we had to take the extraordinary step of closing our carparks, but to keep you in contact with what is happening at Durlston here is today's report.
Not a cloud in the sky as I looked up, to find the culprit of the sound of a croaking, a Carrion Crow as it chased and harassed a Sparrowhawk which was attempting to rise on the thermals.
In the distance a Buzzard was also rising, wings spread wide as it ascended, while a Raven was also spotted.
My highlight however was the sudden arrival of 2 Sand Martins, these birds would have just arrived from Africa. The dull brown back and the pale front flicking as it passed by – just fantastic to see – as far as I know my first of the year.
Nearby, the sound of a Chiffchaff was calling from the top of a Sycamore, the buds of which are just starting to open up to show its initial pale leaves.
The Meadow Pipits taking flight across the field where the Hereford Cattle are grazing, a piping call as they went, disappearing amongst the rough grass on landing.
Trotting past my door a Fox, the gorgeous chestnut coat catching the sunlight, as a House Sparrow chatted from the Brambles and a Wren blasted noisily from the Ash.
Basking on the bare earth was a Peacock butterfly, showing the large ‘eyes’ on the wings. Along some of the now dry muddy paths are small piles of fine earth, left from the emerging Mining Bees.
On the bank at the bottom of a hedgerow a splendid array of Wood Dog Violets, the deep colour alongside the dark green leaves and contrasting with the pale yellow of Primroses. As I admired these the beautiful song of a Blackbird filled the air.