When I arrived at the centre this morning it was a hive of activity already, darting around the Ash and Hawthorn were Goldfinch and Chaffinch, while on the dry-stone wall a Wren perched noisily. Two Magpies sat on top a Hawthorn tree and Crows flew overhead.
Checking on the Hereford cows who were all grazing happily in South Field, I checked the water trough to find it full to the brim and Pond Skaters scatting around on top. Around the small Copse the overhanging Sycamore and Ash have almost shed all their leaves while the Holm Oak is still full and providing shelter for the ground cover. A scattering of Stinking Iris Berries lights up the woods floor.
30 Wood Pigeon flew very noisily overhead, heading towards the Gully where they all landed in the tall Sycamore and Ash trees. A swark from beneath sent the gully flying as the Wood Pigeons, closely followed by a charm of Goldfinches flew up disturbed by the sound of a noisy Magpie. A little higher up a couple of Jackdaws stayed undisturbed by the commotion below.
The strong cold westerly wind is making some beautiful cloud formations this morning, a tortoise like pattern shows clearly until the breeze gently changes it to ripples. On the furthest side of the Country Park 2 Roe Deer were happily grazing and the sound of a Skylark filled the air. Camomile can be found around the dew pond and deep in the grass a Bolete mushroom stood out.
On the tufts of Bramble and Blackthorn a small group of Chaffinch gathered. A wonderful sight above as 50+ Wood Pigeon flew Westwards, the sun shining on the wings as they went.
Passing back via the cattle a loose dog, for the second time this morning, proceeded to chase our cattle around the field, the owner unsuccessfully calling it back. Please keep your dogs on a lead or under very close control.