The first viewpoint of the day, overlooking the Conwy Estuary
Walk stats:
distance: 8.3 miles; Climb: 1574'; Time: 4hours 16 minutes; Walking average: 2.5 m.p.h.
Group: Martyn, Richard, Celia, Paul, Mike, Sue and Dave P.
The weather was better than expected and the rain held off throughout the walk. It was mainly overcast, with a cool refreshing breeze, but there were also several prolonged sunny spells particularly after mid-day.
The walk started by taking the lower path below the toll road across the gun enplacement. This section is frequently the location for the feral goats. Today this was no exception, with over 20 goats being observed, several with young kids. This part of the walk also the location of the Stonechat and Wheatear. Earlier we had encountered nesting Fulmars on the limestone ledges and a pair of Red-breasted Meganser on the estuary close to the shore just after embarking on the road that goes around the Great Orme. Other birds seen or heard included, Herring Gull both adult and 2nd/3rd year birds, Black Headed Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull (both West and North European races), Mute Swan, Jackdaw, Raven, Common Guillemot, Meadow Pipit, Skylark and Cormorant. The flower of the day was the Early Purple Orchard, with several in full bloom on the top of the Great Orme near the limestone pavement section. The Rangers had obviously been out getting ready for the tourist season on the Orme, several new information boards had been errected at various places on the Great Orme Historical Trail, and the old wells had been marked with new wooden signs. This was a good May Day holiday walk, enjoyed by the worker present and those on permanent holiday. A good day for nature watchers, despite the lack of Dotterals! Refreshments were enjoyed by most of us at the Britannia Inn, Pentre Halkyn.
No comments:
Post a Comment