Cherry Red - Groundhogs

The Log tells me it was September 1980 since the last and only time I clocked a Hooded Crow in Dorset, a 'brief encounter', but since then last year we were blessed with a much longer stayer. A bird usually associated with more northerly latitudes, this is a rare visitor to our County which I know has given excellent value to many. Wednesday last, was the 13th time I have visited the Pig Farm, and surrounding areas, at the Grove, Portland since it first arrived last June adding it to every subsequent month since. However, on 4 occasions it was not seen at all and this was the first time it has fallen to the lens - another nice addition although they have been photographed in many other locations in the World.

HOODED CROW

with
CARRION CROWs
for comparison.

Getting a little frisky

and aggressive at times

it didn't seem to be enjoying, or tolerating

the presence of other Corvids in the area.

Although time was a little tight that day, I NEVER visit Portland without calling in to see my dear Ol' Shipmate - The Secret Lemonade Drinker - and especially as he had acquired a new power lead for my Bose Wave i-Pod Docking Station. Cor, I've missed Vera Lynn and Alma Cogan over the past few days! The biggest surprise being when he agreed to accompany me to The Bill - he doesn't get out much. First up was

ROCK PIPIT
but seemingly not the usual number of these.

followed by the
Border Force Cutter
SEARCHER
in some quarters know as HMS EXPENSIVE

3 of what would soon become 4

PURPLE SANDPIPER

where then found on the rapidly drying rocks

 as the Spring Tide ebbed, revealing a few

LIMPETS

Next were c6

TURNSTONE

which along with the Purps were added to the Year List.

 

A vane attempt was made to find the Black Redstart including in the
LIGHTHOUSE GARDEN

SECRET
at the OBELISK

PULPIT ROCK
and part of the

Old Quarry Workings at the Bill.

SEA KALE
a bit past Sell-By Date and

(wintering) BURDOCK

A view to the TOP before a whistle stop visit to the

OBSERVATORY QUARRY
where the

LITTLE OWL
was recorded for the year.
Having to beat a retreat, after dropping Secret at home the temptation
was too much to pass by Maiden Castle where several

CORN BUNTING

were found fraternising with the Sheep

and always at a distance!
As stated time was of the essence so unfortunately

GOLDEN PLOVER
had to be forsaken, at least that's what was thought before a small
flock flew into the small field closest to the houses.

Decent 'scope views were had of these, capping what had been a

an Excellent Day.
I arrived back at Parley Court Farm just in time to see this

CITY JET FOKKER F50
arrive from Antwerp to land at Bournemouth International Airport.

Its payload was to be the Bournemouth Championship Football Team
who flew to Wigan for a league game to be played today.
Come on you 'CHERRIES'

Entry	Pageviews
United Kingdom	431
United States	157
Germany	96
Czech Republic	54
Estonia	26
France	23
Ukraine	23
Canada	22
Russia	22
Indonesia	10 Great to see you back in the Chart!