For the first time in months we went for the short walk around Itchenor that’s such a pleasure; shame it’s been denied until now due to the restrictions. The sailing club is now firmly gated off, It’s not clear whether this is to keep Corvid 19 in or out.

Just past the club, adjacent to the mud berths, is this small field surrounding the stream that flows out into the harbour. It’s always been a good spot for birds with several Green Woodpeckers, one was flying around there today. However the highlight was to see a Hen Harrier circling above the field and then on towards the south. Clearly distinguishable by it’s grey wings with black primaries it was a
male bird. Perhaps a juvenile as the tail seemed to be a bit barred. A rarity in the harbour, I’ve seen one before, not sure of the time of year though. Would it be stopping off for a feed on it’s way north?

Crossing the fields the crops seem to be more advanced here than to the north of the harbour, might be that they were started earlier or recovered from the storms quicker. Either way this field of Rape Seed was a riot of colour in full bloom. Closer examination of other plants nearby showed that the seed pods were fully formed so maybe they’d been in flower for some time.

Returning along the harbour side path it was good to see two yachts anchored in Itchenor reach; a sort of enjoyment that’s been missing for so long. A
Southerly was quite a way out but still seemed to be around which wasn’t surprising as it was only a few minutes after high tide. The little folkboat or similar was on it’s side with children on board clearly enjoying themselves from the laughter that flowed over to the shore.