It was the wind that caused the radio mast to vibrate. Regardless, Chiff Chaff, Carrion Crow and Song Thrush were heard. At one point, the Song Thrush broadcast appeared to contain “hip, hip hooray” and “don’t try to kiss me”. Okay….
Grey Squirrels were active, one amongst the fresh catkin clad branch tips of Goat Willow. Below were eight inch long such branch tips, perhaps shed by Squirrel gnawing? Near the timeline, another Squirrel scampered along the “cock & hen” capstones of a timeline dry stone wall. Admire and felt the rough bark, with fin like features, of an Elm branch. Amongst the Dell was a Robin, whilst beyond, mist obscured Old Harry. Black grape like clusters were in fact developing Ash buds. Whilst a dense but thinned branched Holm Oak “coppiced stool” protruded from the coastal wall, a Great Tit perched upon the stonework of the eastern castle turret.
It is always a treat to hear then see passing Oyster Catchers at Durlston. The pied waders rounded the head from the bay. Cauliflower head like buds were upon a cliff top Wayfaring Tree. Rounding the head, myself I walk into a breeze carrying moisture. Scurvy Grass mats were between coppiced Tamarisk stools. Two Greater Periwinkle flowers were nearby, fortunately they have never significantly spread and established here.
Today’s raft of seabird was hard to see upon the sea, amongst the fifty or so were at least ten Razorbills. At path level a Raven flew silently westward. Before reaching the Stephenson Screen I saw a Jay fly by. Fresh spread thistle rosettes were work up towards knee height.