Monday, 31 March 2014

April 2014

The ‘yellow season’ is upon us; Cowslips are starting to bloom on Bindon Hill. Here is hoping they will have more of an impact on the climb up from the west-side since the large-scale scrub clearance on this side. Primroses are at their best on grassy banks. It is also the season of ‘blossom’; trees such as Blackthorn, Cherry, and Crab Apple provide early nectar for insects.

The ‘metallic’ and ‘frenzied’ song of the Linnet joins Yellowhammers, Meadow Pipits and Skylarks on Grassland sites. This has been particularly notable on Hambury Tout near the South West Coast Path. Chiffchaffs have been regularly heard in and around the village, one the first of many migratory birds to arrive this time of year. We have also had a report of a Blackcap singing near the Cove, a Whitethroat singing by the village shop, and an unusual report of several Firecrests in the village. This tiny ‘jewel’ of a bird (similar to the Goldcrest) has been given Amber Status due its decline in recent years. Winter is the time to look out for these in the south-west. The beautiful song of the Blackbird has been a regular at dawn.


We have chosen Cowslip for the flower of the month, its clusters of droopy flowers are apricot-yellow in colour, and its scent similar to apricots. They have a brief flowering period so get out there and see these beauties while you can.

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