Dorset

13 June - A spur-of-the-moment trip to Dorset as another fine calm day. A quick stop at Martin Down gave good views of a bonus Turtle Dove. A walk at Coombe Heath at Arne was fairly quiet being the middle of the day, but a Dartford Warbler sang briefly and another was furtively carrying food to the nest. Meadow Pipits and Linnets were in evidence, and a Cuckoo singing. Silver-studded Blue butterflies on the wing in good numbers. The main objective was the coastal Tern colonies at Poole Harbour, and I had good views of the noisy cacophany as the adults brought food in to their young, both Sandwich and Common Terns. Waders are thin on the ground this time of year, as they are mostly breeding in northern climes, but a few Black-tailed Godwits were feeding, as well as a solitary Avocet and Redshank, plus the usual resident Oystercatchers. A stop at the Winterbourne Downs reserve on the way home was well worthwhile as a pair of Stone Curlews with 3 chicks was viewable distantly from the screen, amazing birds as always with their large eyes and cryptic but beautiful plumage.