Chef Aron & I both drove up the entrance road with caution. A Roe Deer scampered ahead, looking the jump the wall into Smithfield. Eventually it disappeared via the hidden purpose-built deep leap / hogget hole feature near Reservoir Copse. Unfortunately, the muddy puddles and footprint churned paths had returned. Before South Field, the leaves of a Field Maple were noted, although a few buds were yet to open. Amongst the wet sward, some ten Herring Gulls and two Carrion Crow were seeking food. Upon reaching Saxon, reliably Skylark and Chiff Chaff were heard.
At Hay Rake Quarr I was rewarded with my first Early Spider Orchid of the year. It was the lowest of those that would open upon this stem, nearly one centimetre of the ground. Not obvious, and easily stood, a photo was not taken as a shower began! Many buds were found near the Demo Quarr. In the distance eight Hereford Cattle weaners remained in Field one. Despite the efforts of six of us, they refused to leave the field! Fresh Violet flowers appeared where Bramble had been cleared. In the gully two Jackdaw perched on the overhead wires, however, a solo bird would fly-past with a twig in its beak. A brief flurry of activity showed a dozen about the Lighthouse.
Today the blowhole spurted, thanks to a brown sea with much froth. Our Guillemot cave was vacant, and no such birds seen upon a rough sea. Recently our new cliff camera was put in place, but connection a test is still to be do. Reliably, Fulmars “bounced” of the sea cliffs. A quartet of Greater Black Backed Gulls flew west, whilst Feral Doves rose and ascended the cliff side. #
The rockface near Durlston Head shone I n the sun as it had been splashed by sea spray. A chattering Goldfinch charm was active beside Dell bridge. Magnolia showed white elongated leaf forms. Upon the terrace Wood Pigeons were amongst Primroses and Common Daisies. Dandelion flowers were enjoyed in many locations.
3:20pm House Martin low flight in Johnston Centenary Meadow!