After the excitement of watching the Olympic sailing, it was off to the downs to enjoy the wildlife. And here I spotted Yellowhammers galore – well at least 5, in two different areas, and two of these were youngsters, so providing evidence of successful breeding. The Yellowhammer is one of my favourite birds; bright yellow head makes it easy to find, it also often perches on the top of bushes showing itself off, and it has a very recognisable song – what more to like!
The wind worn Hawthorns were offering shelter and perches to a family of Common Whitethroats, which will hopefully stay a little longer before flying to Africa.
Migration however is underway, with 3 Garden Warblers and 3 Grasshopper Warblers seen.
Whilst admiring the Stonechats – a group moving in amongst the branches of the Blackthorn, now laden with green sloes.
From above came the sound of Goldfinches and Linnets, while Skylarks wafted, hovered and flitted above the meadows.
The loud long squeak of Bullfinch brought the white rumped bird to my attention just as they flew over before landing in the old Pear tree (another of my favourite birds!).
The meadows are still looking glorious, with swathes of purple Black and Lesser Knapweed mixing with the off-white Wild Carrot.
Splashes of yellow from the tall Agrimony, some now going to seed, plus the Bristley Ox-tongue – both of these plants grab hold of you as you walk past!
The pinky-grey Red Bartsia, purple Tufted Vetch and yellow Hop Trefoil add more colour – just wonderful.
I was surprised by the sight of a very tatty Adonis Blue which was basking in the sunshine on a Small Scabious.