A walk to the Sea

The sea was full this morning; overflowing at the edges and pushing at the base of the cliffs. No wind so no waves but the swell was well over 2m. I had hoped a cetacean or two may break the surface but only a couple of Grey Seals put in an appearance.

Skylarks gave a backing to the percussion of Great Tits as I arrived at the cliff top. Plenty of Red-throated Divers still and the odd Brent moving West and then presumably back North; even a Great crested Grebe was on the sea evading the attentions of fish stealing gulls. However, there were a few new kids on the block. The Fulmars were back. On the cliffs, on the sea and gliding effortlessly by. Spring is around the corner.

Hope

It’s no coincidence that the Blue Whale, hanging from the roof of the Hintze hall at the Natural History Museum, is named ‘Hope’. Hope is a feeling of expectation and longing. The largest creature ever to have lived deserves a name that captures the emotion of desire.

Tania and I were on our exercise walk at the weekend and just outside we came across these Snowdrops pushing up through cold dark soil and leaf litter. A sign of Spring.

I hope you are keeping well in these dark days. I hope you, and you family, are safe and well. I hope beyond hope that you know better days are ahead. Spring and better days are on their way.

Early Bird

Last week we had a small bird skulking around in bushes. It wasn’t until we paid it a little attention did it reveal itself. A Chiffchaff. A harbinger of spring? I do hope so … but I’m doubtful. I reckon this mild winter might just have a sting in its tail.

Just like a Boomerang

Look who’s back! Seen last Thursday at Falcon Cottage. Actually he’s probably the son of Italian Sparrow? History tells us those grey pins in the crown will disappear as the breeding plumage becomes established and the gorget will develop chestnut sides. … no? … let’s wait and see. Well, we’ll only see if the little fella has the courtesy to hang around a while.

To meet a prince

It’s spring!

Harbinger

Spring. The sound of the Chiffchaff always gives it away.

A sea of stars

The Wood Anemones put on a real show for us. The sunshine fell through the canopy in shafts … and they shone. There was such a contrast between the deep shaded green of the woodland floor and the pure white of the flowers.