Arne and Stourhead

This Sika was grazing in the overflow carpark at Arne.  I took the pictures on my way to Coombe Heath.

Not to be sniffed at

Of course I can see you

What?

Oh, these spots

They'll soon wear off

Sika have spots in the summer and are sometimes confused with Fallow Deer by visitors to the RSPB reserve.  Originally from Japan, they are excellent swimmers and undoubtedly came to the mainland at Poole Harbour by swimming from Brownsea Island, where they were introduced back in the day.

These next Sika were in the woodland near Shipstal Point.

Risk assessment?

Mum says it's OK

Antlers still in the original wrapping

... and telling the world?

A closer view

This chap was relatively cooperative last year.  We'll have to see how he feels disposed this winter.

I can't be sure what this butterfly is.  Any suggestions?

This I know.  It's a Wood Ant.

Trying to catch one again a suitable background took some time.  They don't half go fast.

Rose Chafer Beetle

I was hoping that a Dartford Warbler might perch just there.  This is the stand-in.

I couldn't pass up on the chance to see what the Raft Spiders were doing.

Here's what seemed to be uppermost on the menu that day (according to other witnesses):

Common Blue Damselfly

... and here's a lonesome Sunflower.

Later in the week I was at Stourhead.

Marsh Tit

It wasn't me that put all that food out!
 

Nuthatch.  We can see which food item it prefers

... and seeing what might have been dropped