My first spot this morning was the sight of two magpies sitting in the Silver Birch. Approaching the woods which was still dark a Blackbird flew across the path, Ravens called from above and the sound of Great-tits echoed around the trees.
The wind whistled through the Holm Oaks, rustling the canopy leaves, sending a few floating through the air. A Robin sang out its beautiful song from the protection of Bay trees on the timeline and further down a Blue-tit was seen and heard in the Bramble.
The Lichen covered Holm Oak cracked and creaked as they swayed and collided together. Another Blue tit sang from an Elder tree and two Herring Gulls glided over-head. The sun was just starting to peer through the clouds sending rays of orange light towards the dark blue sea. I thought it would be the start of a bright day, but now as I write the raining is hammering at the window and I am very glad I only got a little wet on my walk.
Heading towards the observation point I was hit with the salty sea air, my eyes streamed in the wind, which made it very difficult to see. Above a group of Jackdaws whirled and swirled around in the wind. Looking out to see through blurry eyes I spotted a Gannet gliding across the water, almost undeterred by the strong wind, its out-stretched wings of bright white and black tips making it an easy spot against the dark coloured sea.
20 or so Guillemots sat on the water as the waves rushed over them, burying them underneath each in-coming wave. A group then left the safety of the ledges and headed out to sea. As I watched them fly out I realised the air was filled with Guillemots flying around, many at eye level with me. It was quite a sight and one I wished I could see better if my eyes weren’t still streaming with water.
Another couple of Gannets glided along the water looking huge and elegant compared to the tiny out of control Guillemots. The sea was creating almighty waves crashing against the Portland Stone and almost reaching the top of the 40ft+ cliff face. My bobble hat was wailing around and as I peered over the cliff I’m sure the Peregrine which was only a few metres away from me had its eye on it.