Unimproved grassland at Durlston Country Park in mid-July. With at least 578 species of flowering plant recorded along the cliffs, limestone grasslands and woodlands this is one of the best areas in the country for wild flowers. In mid July its spectacular. With such a rich variety of Read More …
Category: Landscapes
Studland Bog
Another scorcher and a wander around Studland whilst the family were enjoying the beach. The dry, sandy heathland combined with the scents of the various flowering plants and the sea are strangely reminiscent of the Mediterranean. Further down the slope and a shallow valley open up to a number of Read More …
The Italian Connection
A stunning specimen of Viper’s Bugloss one of several found on route to a disused quarry on the Purbeck coast. One look at the deeply fractured rocks was more than sufficient to persuade me that entering the former quarry wouldn’t be the wisest of Read More …
Scratch Arse Ware
A few highlights from a far too brief walk through the National Trust managed Scratch Arse Ware in mid July. With Jake for company not an afternoon for a large camera and lens. Musk Thistle Pyramid Orchid Wild Carrot. Unusually no sign of any Carrot Broomrape this year – probably Read More …
Low Newton
A superb display of Thrift, Birdsfoot Trefoil, Cowslips and Sea Campion along the northern shore of Embleton Bay. All accompanied by the constant sound of Skylarks, Meadow Pipits and Oystercatchers. Just offshore a Grey Seal bobbed around in the Kelp with the occasional Arctic Read More …
Staple Island
Hard to believe its been 8 years since our last visit to Northumberland and the Farne Islands. With the forecast set fair we dropped Jake off at Tollfield Farm Kennels and made our way down to Seahouses “Gateway to the Farnes.” Upon arrival at the Read More …
Goyt Valley
One of several areas I really need to visit more often. The upper reaches of the River Goyt from Derbyshire Bridge dropping down through the moorland and wooded valley to the ruins of Errwood Hall is a superb area for bird watching. In addition to the more Read More …
Pendle Hill
A glorious morning in early May and time for a walk. Probably around a 1:10 chance of finding a Dotterel not great odds but …………….. Read More …
Keep your head down
Hidden away amongst the heather and moss a Red Grouse unfortunately for the Grouse the red eyebrows are simply unmissable. This one really needs to learn to be a bit more wary ….. Read More …