We have had a very pleasant start to the year, though a bit chilly at times. Insects and birds all seem to be happy, as do the flowers. We are however a bit short of rain for the vegetable growers, and for golf courses - at least that's my excuse.

May is really the month for birds. Purbeck bird week runs up to the 5th May, with several events planned for each day. Details from Durlston Country Park. They also have walks looking at flowers, orchids and dolphins - though not all at the same time.

Borough of Poole are leading a tour of Upton Country Park, on 15th at 2.30 PM, and there is also a walk on Canford Heath on 26th at 2.00PM

For Butterfly Lovers, the Annual Butterfly Conservation/Dorset Wildlife Trust walk on Ballard Down is scheduled for 25th. Great day out if the weather is good.

DWT also have several events featuring otters, some reasonably local. So if you are an otter fan, give them a ring.

Birboats within the Harbour have finished for the year, but coastal cruises to see our Heritage Coast will start again in May. Tel 558550 for details.

Finally, for those with a tidy mind, Earthkind will be running a Beachclean for Holes Bay on 25th May. Meet near Macdonald's at Wessex Retail Park, 10.30AM. Wellies!

Activities over a wider area are listed in the Greenlink publication, and the Dorset Countryside Guide.

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Dudley Hull

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