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31st January

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January Summary

Generally warmer but wetter than January 2003, with fewer frost days.

Three new flower species: Common Ramping Fumitory, Common Field Speedwell and Winter Heliotrope, along with the tentative Water Crowfoot.

The largest discrepancy between this year and last is that the Primrose is not yet flowering in places where it was abundant last year. A number of perennials did not die back as much as usual, leading to some very early flowering dates for e.g. Hogweed, Yarrow, Cow Parsley, Bush Vetch & Red Dead-nettle. Ivy-leaved Toad-flax and Lesser Celandine also seen in flower, along with the usual Dandelion, Daisy and Groundsel.

Lichens are very visible at this time of year - tree and other plant leaves usually hide them.

Birds seen: Wren, Buzzard, Sparrowhawk, Pied Wagtail, Song Thrush, Chaffinch, Goldfinch, Rook, Crow, Raven, Magpie, Jackdaw, Heron, Pheasant, Blackbird, Blue tit, Great tit, Mallard, Robin, Starling.