A new day dawns at Durlston, and it glistens where the dew-covered grass bask in glorious sunshine. The ground of course still providing a satisfying squelch underfoot, that will soon be missed, unlike the on-going dread of damp socks.
Filling the air with mellifluous notes; Chaffinch, Chiffchaff and a warbling Song Thrush. The chorus grows in intensity as I step in the woodland, with vocals from Great Tit, Robin, and Wren, joining the medley of bird song. Not forgetting, a comfortably perched Woodpigeon who appeases my ears with a soft background coo.
Along the woodland walk, long shadows are cast westward behind the Holm Oaks and Corsican Pines which guard Durlston’s Eastern flank. Today the bay rests. Hard to believe that just two days ago, an experienced surfer was whipped right around Peveril Point and into Swanage Bay, and swiftly collected by the Lifeboat.
Fresh leaves now adorn the Willow, and a Horse-chestnut buds appears ready to burst. Viburnum flowers are shot, though clusters of Wayfaring will soon replace them. Damson rich with white blossom. Autumn leaf-fall sinks into the earth, succeeded by Cuckoo-pint, Horsetail spikes, and a scattering cheery-yellow Dandelions.
My temptation to go and see our first flowering Early Spider Orchid is overcome by a draw to the sea. Down the diagonal path, many more Chiffchaff can be heard, as they communicate across resplendent Gorse blooms and Blackthorn blossom: Each lending their sweet scents to the slow breeze. Goldfinch tinkling as they pass overhead.
I spend a little while pondering the bank at Tilly Whim, enjoying the buzz of Bees and Flies as they investigate the Ivy. A dank smell arises from the dripping cave, but it’s a pleasant one, one that any climber will know and associate with, all too well.