Fall and Decline

Autumn has been less than in some recent years. Unusually mild weather has contributed to this: colours have been less compelling. Fewer deer have been seen. They prefer Blacka in the colder times when midges and flies don't trouble them and the greater shelter is more inviting than on the higher treeless slopes. Cattle have been hard to avoid, diminishing the appeal and destroying any illusion of a natural landscape. This feels like part of a general decline. Wildlife Trust meddling is also difficult to ignore; that's the way they want it: draw attention to what you do and it doesn't matter that the standard is poor. This has built up year on year and there are fewer views to turn to where you don't see something of their crass interventions.

Now a sight to enjoy: a few really cold nights have come along, the bracken has died off, and red morning sunlight transforms the view.

 Bracken at this time is as welcome to the eye as a new fall of snow.

Don't tell the managers. Natural beauty is anathema to them.