More cloud about this morning than for some time, however the sunshine still glorious. A stroll back towards the meadows where yesterday evening I had spent an hour or so watching a Red-backed Shrike. Not a usual bird to see here at this time of year (or anytime for that matter), but the shape, markings and activity making it unmistakable. The thick bill and dark mask, pale flecked front. The bird at times was perched on the dead branch pulling at an insect. Unfortunate my camera was not good enough for a photo!
Slowly clambering up the stem of a Cleavers was a Greater Bloody-nosed Beetle, as I watched a Small Blue butterfly landed alongside, closing its wings to show the delightful silvery blue underside. A little further along a Common Blue was taking an early morning flight as was the much brighter Adonis Blue, the wings flashing superbly in the light.
Three Skippers, skipping in the grass – Dingy, Lulworth and Large while my first Ringlet of the year spotted on the Bramble leaves, a deep velvety chocolate colour with seven round rings on the wing.
A movement on the ground, and a female Adder was slithering over the short grass and bare earth, surprisingly speedy as she moved, the body rippling but with little sideways action.
Soaring past above the blue sea a Gannet, the brilliant white wings easily seen as this glorious bird glided along, back tips noted as it tilted.
On the water a huge scattering of Guillemots, the brown and white bodies bobbing. On the ledges many of them now have a chick, a tiny ball of black feathers, nestled underneath the belly. The oldest about 10days with a number still to hatch out from their single huge egg.
The gargling and growling sound of the Guillemots, combining with the fishy smell!! This accompanied by the cackling of the Fulmars as they swooped and soared along the top of the cliff edge.