Young country diary: A weary wheatear shows off his best feature | Henry

Dartmoor, Devon: This one is an early-arriver after spending winter in sub-Saharan Africa, and it's keen to show off its 'white arse' The first signs of spring shine through the shadow of Haytor Rocks, a granite guard of Dartmoor's natural secrets. The sun's heat warms the granite, the first bumblebees thrum over the gorse. After months of mizzly rain, it was freeing to be out on the moor again. The trees were awakening, early emergers blackthorn and willow, stalwarts of Emsworthy Mire - an old friend.With binoculars pressed tight to my eyes, I scan the valley, searching for any sign of returning migrants. Mid-March is too early for some, but the more proactive species love to start the season early. A raven cronks overhead, a sound as welcoming as it is unnerving. Continue reading...