From floods to snow; a transition which has brought some interesting wildlife sightings to our attention. Lapwings are more widely spread at present; flocks have been seen on numerous occasions in and around the village; often seen in ‘clumsy’ flight and calling ‘peewit’. This is a red status bird due to significant decline in recent decades. All across the Lulworth Estate we have had numerous sightings of Fieldfare and Redwing, often together in fields.
The first Blackcap and Willow Warblers of the year have been reported in West Lulworth , the Willow Warblers near The Millpond. Both species are summer visitors which the ‘birder’ always looks forward to hearing to mark the time of year. The Willow Warbler’s song is more distinctive than the Blackcaps.
In wooded areas we have heard Great Spotted Woodpeckers ‘drumming’; a sound associated with spring. Near Park Lodge in Lulworth Castle Park
Just before the first snowfall we have seen many signs of spring; Honeysuckle flowering in the woodlands near East Lulworth , and Bluebells unfurling under the leaf-litter. The golden tassels of Hazel Catkins in hedgerows and woodlands contribute a splash of colour before buds and flowers emerge.
Frequently seen on gorse this month is Jew’s ear fungus; an easy one to remember by the distinctive ear-shape which has a very jelly-like texture.
We have chosen Lesser Celandines as the flower of the month. Grassy banks come to life in early spring with their cheerful bright-yellow flowers which open on sunny days.
Lulworth Rangers
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