Welcome to our "further afield" blog where we show the comings and goings of the wildlife around the beautiful Cuckmere Valley here in East Sussex. Click here for an interactive map of the Cuckmere Valley. Today's walk revealed lots of young, spring foliage sprouting up around the roadside edges and hedgerows including; nettle, garlic mustard and cow parsley, though the downland crests remain pretty flowerless at the moment. Pausing to drink in the glorious view of the river Cuckmere from my vantage point on the downs, I could hear the sounds of gulls flocked on the water meadows below, distant crows and the song of a chaffinch nearby. Down in the valley long-tailed tits foraged amongst the scrub which hugs the steep downland slopes and closer to the river yellow hammers called. Lord's and Ladies are springing up everywhere, and common field speedwell, ground ivy and a few bits of lesser celandine are beginning to bloom.
Within the water-filled dykes alongside the river, dense beds of feathery common water crowfoot can be seen just below the surface. In a few weeks time they will transform the dykes into carpets of gorgeous white flowers. I was surprised at how clear the water was and soon became aware that the surface was alive with pond scaters and a few wirly-gig beetles frantically spinning their crazy dance. Further along the river redshanks and little egrets took to flight whilst skylark song constantly filled the air. Finally, close to the bridge at Exceat, sea beet and the feathery foliage of fennel is beginning to sprout. As the months pass we'll continue to show you more of the beauty and tranquillity this delightful place has to offer. |