Daffodils are out in ‘full-swing’. Some are the smaller native wild variety, especially near wooded areas. Others are the bigger garden variety, existing in different shapes and shades of yellow. Crocuses join them on grassy banks in shades of mauves and purples, and when open, offer their bright-orange stamen to insects.
We have had various reports over the last month of Hen Harriers seen near Coombe Heath. The latest sighting was of a male hunting the fields near Bindon Mill.
A regular sighting over the last few months has been of a Barn Owl flying over the hedgerow alongside the road between West Lulworth and Durdle Door. Seeing Barn Owls in the middle of the day rather than at dusk has been commonplace recently, an indication that food is scarce.
The song of the Chiffchaff was added to the list last week. One has been spotted near the Millpond in West Lulworth on several occasions. These summer migrants have been heard a little later than last year; another reminder that spring has been delayed. A personal favourite is the song of the Blackbird; it’s mellow, flutey song is another sign of spring, often heard at dawn. Across farmland and chalk downland Skylarks rise to the air and burst into ‘liquid’ song.
A Redpoll has been seen in the Castle Park on feeders. Their heads look like they have been dipped in crimson powder. These tiny finches are less common in southern and south-west England, and are most likely seen in the winter when trees are bare.
We have chosen the Early Dog-violet for this month. Their delicate flowers are usually the first to bloom on Bindon Hill and other chalk downland sites.
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