The early sun was hitting the chalk cliffs of Old Harry providing a superb pink colouration to the rocks, elsewhere gaps in the layer of dark grey cloud allowed shafts of golden sunlight to penetrate producing golden patches across the sea.
My fortune at being able to be here was added to, when on my arrival at Tilly Whim, a Grey Seal stuck his head above the water a few times to survey and then disappeared completely. Its long nose was slightly blotched with a variety of grey colours.
Having watched the sea for a while, a flit spotted out of the corner of my eye was a flash of red of the Black Redstart’s tail which then perched on a rock so I could get a better view.
From overhead the calling of flocks of small birds included lots (hundreds) of Goldfinches, some Siskins, a few Redpolls and a Brambling. While also moving about were some large flocks of Wood Pigeons – much easier to identify!
A Peregrine Falcon perched on the cliffs before taking flight and heading out, its grey back looking paler than its head today – a trick of the light?
Half way up the cliff face, the large ledge was covered in Guillemots once more. They have been about most days this month as they jostle for territory, pick up their bonds and enjoy the view!
From the top of the metal Mile Marker pylons came a loud deep croak, this Raven then took flight an continued to call. As it went overhead the characteristic wedge-shaped tail, long wings and shaggy neck could all be seen.
Flying alongside was a Jackdaw, looking much smaller and as it was joined by others they were all cackling noisily.
Stinking Iris is providing splashes of orange berries in the hedgerow bottom, the cases have split open and the berries are weighing down the stems making many of them sag.
A quick peep into the woodland where I was able to watch a Treecreeper walk up the trunk of a Horse Chestnut before moving onto a Sycamore, a good view of the slightly curved beak and spotless white belly.