WFV, Sulber Nick (Ingleborough), 19.5.26

Our group of 4 alighted the train in Horton-in-Ribblesdale and made our way up to Sulber Nick.  As we progressed numerous species of sedge were in flower as well as early purple orchids, common dog violets, salad burnet and cuckoo flower.  As we passed through the gate where the birdseye primrose are known to flower, there were none to be seen.  Cattle had apparently been grazing here, disturbing the ground and causing the emergence of numerous thistles.  However, ascending further, we were rewarded by the sight of an abundance of birdseye and collectively breathed a sigh of relief.  Lunch was taken here so we could sit and admire their beauty, whilst listening to the skylarks.  Mention must also be made of the mossy saxifrage, which was in full flower.  

Continuing on the path after lunch, it was pleasing to note how much the birdseye had spread and as we walked, we continued to be enchanted by their presence.  Other plants seen were dog’s mercury, cotton grass, wood anenome, some newly emerged ferns and the leaves of wood sorrel.  Just before we reached Brae Pasture, we heard a cuckoo calling and stopped to listen.  The call was loud and as we looked up into the ash  tree nearby we could see the bird quite clearly.  It’s call continued and then a meadow pipit appeared and started mobbing the cuckoo, obviously seeing it, quite rightly, as a potential threat.  Reaching Brae Pasture on a high, after time spent watching these birds, we were delighted to see a lovely covering of primroses.  

We returned to Horton shortly after 3 pm and adjourned to the local hostelry to recap on a thoroughly enjoyable day with many notable sightings.  Thanks must go to Steve for all the hard work he had put in organising alternative routes to meet all eventualities.

Sally Tetlow