Off to the coast in the hope of seeing the dolphins which were seen yesterday – sadly no fins popped up, however whirring low across the water were black and white Guillemots, while on the ledge another 100 or more stood. Many have now moved on from their ‘winter’ non-breeding plumage, but there are still a number yet to change sporting mostly white heads.
On the cliff a Peregrine Falcon perched, difficult to see today as it’s speckled chest blended in with the grey limestone background. Another Peregrine flew past, the grey back spotted as it flashed by.
Overhead flocks of Wood Pigeons, hundreds and hundreds noted, but almost circling rather than flying anywhere in particular.
Flocks of small migrants flying over, some of their calls distinguishable, including Goldfinches, Linnets, Siskin and Redpoll. A couple of Grey Wagtails looping across the sky, their long tails easily spotted.
Standing on the coping stone of the wall was a Sparrowhawk, which as it took flight showed off its long striped tail, a great opportunity to get a fairly good closeup view.
The colours of the trees are still looking lovely, the leaves having turned a gorgeous variety of yellows, browns and oranges. Horse Chestnut, Oak and Field Maple sprung to my notice toady as did the colour variety on the Wayfaring Tree.
Scampering up the Willow was a Grey Squirrel, while taking advantage of the acorn bounty Jays, with 3 spotted during my short walk in woodland. The flash of blue wing and white rump both catching the early sunlight.
A few short stemmed flowers still blooming on the downs, with the purple headed Black Knapweed and Stemless Thistles, the odd Bulbous Buttercup and Wild Thyme providing splashes of colour amongst the green and brown of the grass.
On the ground the slot marks of Roe Deer, showing where they have been travelling, and in places large latrines of the Badgers.