The weather got the better of us today and the Peregrine watch was rained off this afternoon, which gives me sometime for a Dove Stone update.
Prior to the rain arriving today we've had sightings of the Peregrines briefly plus a few of our usual suspects: Wren, Blue, Great and Long Tailed Tit, Goldfinch and Greenfinch, Great Spotted Woodpecker ( good views on the feeder at Ashway Gap ), Willow Warbler, Pheasant and Black Pheasant ( I think there is some minor debate going on as to whether these Black Pheasants are Japanese Green Pheasants . . . ! ) , Swallow and a Cormorant.
I was quite surprised at the latter as I've not seen a Cormorant at Dove Stone before . Must mention the Raven we were watching yesterday flying over Dove Stone rocks. Flying along it flipped and rolled onto its back. Twice. Brilliant stuff .
Aside from birdlife today we've been having a look at Common Spotted Orchids and a Larch Bolete fungi, both near to Ashway Gap. I've posted some images on the photo section of this site if you're interested to see these beautiful flowers and fungi. Thanks to Simon for confirming the id on these.
As well as orchids and fungi we're always interested in all things insect. Today's highlights have been a Nettle Weevil which, despite its size, is an amazingly bright metallic green as well as a Common Darter dragonfly.
Talking of insects, one of the summer holiday activities that will be happening at Dove Stone is a family friendly bug search. Watch this space for more news. There'll also be other activities over the holidays like stream dipping, a closer look at owl pellets and what owls eat, wildlife quizzes as well the chance to win some amazing prizes in our Dove Stone art competition.
More soon . . .