I had one of those magical ephemeral moments this morning when time seemingly stands still. I first heard the curlews on Wednesday but this morning I was standing on the verandah in a thick mist – could not see further than the hedge - and the curlews were calling in the large open field behind the chapel.  The fluting song carried in the mist had a breathtaking amplified resonance.

Snow has been a big feature of the weather over the last month.  One party were actually snowed in and spent an extra night at the cabin.  It was definitely the heaviest fall in quite a few years.

Just before the weather took a cold turn I put up a few nest boxes around the cabin – not sure if I have sited them in best places but will wait and see.

I wouldn’t say that spring has sprung forth yet but it is definitely poised for the warm spring sunshine arrival.  The leaf buds are ready to open and these hardy little self setting corncockle plants have survived the harshest frosts, protected by the slate.  I will have to replant them as they are too high to grow where they are.

The ewes usually know best and they are having their lambs now so let’s hope milder weather is just round the corner.

Enjoy the nature of Obley and do let me know if you see anything interesting!