December 2012

Firstly, well worth a mention, is a report from a Durdle Door caravan resident of a male Redstart seen from her kitchen window. Redstarts are included on the Amber List as species with unfavourable conservation status in Europe where they are declining. They are normally seen in the UK from April to September, and then they migrate to Africa. So it is possible this was a ‘straggler’. The ‘rattly’ call of the Mistle thrush has been frequently heard dominating the trees and hedgerows this time of year.  Also, of the Thrush family; Fieldfare have been seen in trees and fields around West Lulworth, foraging for berries as they move swiftly in their flocks.  

Flocks of Goldfinches are a welcome sight; their bright plumage flashing like jewels in the autumn sunlight while they tug at seeds of flower-head skeletons such as Teasels. A Red Kite has been seen flying over East Chaldon; another Amber List species because of its historical decline.

Although it has been said that this year has not been plentiful for nuts and berries compared to previous years, we have noticed Spindle has been particularly fruitful in hedgerows. The bright-pink Chinese lantern-like berries open up to reveal orange seeds, poisonous to humans but not to birds. November is a good month for spotting different fungi species, most of which we struggle to identify. One that is easily identified is Jew’s ear fungus, distinguished by its ear-like shape and brown colouration. It is common to see this fruiting-body on Elder branches as we have seen them.

It is no surprise that we have chosen Holly as shrub of the month, its bright red berries ripening in time for the festive season.