Birdsong is really gaining momentum now, with up to 16 species singing in my area in the recent warm days. A welcome addition were two Chiffchaffs yesterday, newly returned from the Mediterranean (or perhaps Torbay - increasing numbers have been spending the milder winters in southern coastal areas). It's always a thrill to meet newly arrived migrants, signalling the constantly changing seasons. The first Blackcaps should be any day now, with Willow Warblers not far behind. I've been looking out for Wheatears on the open moor, but haven't been lucky yet. Still looking for that 'white arse.' Linnets, Greenfinches and Goldfinches, which are 'altitudinal migrants' on Dartmoor (meaning they go lower down in winter), are starting to return to the higher areas, and Skylarks have been back for a while.
I'm taking part in the Dartmoor Study Group's birdsong survey, which involves making a note of who's singing, when and how often. It makes you really listen and tune in for even the common species that you might not take much notice of usually, just to check if everyone's present and singing. The thrush family are trying to outdo each other, with Blackbird, Song and Mistle Thrushes belting it out daily, proclaiming their territories. It's delightful to have the Blackbirds singing again - they are among the very best singers - rich, fluty, mellow and throaty. The next virtuoso to return will be the Garden Warbler in late April.
Bumblebees, hoverflies and butterflies on the wing; flowering violets; spring is very much underway.
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