The Natural History of Selborne

Dog’s toothed violets bud. Lord Stawell made me a visit on this day, & brought me a white wood-cock it’s head, neck, belly, sides, were milk-white, as were the under sides of the wings.  On the back, & upper parts of the wings were a few spots of the natural colour.  From the shortness of the bill I should suppose it to be a male bird.  it was plump, & in good condition.

Daffodil blows… “it takes the winds of March/ Before the Swallow dares.”

Snow-drops are out of bloom.  Rainbow.

Carted in 6 loads of hot dung for the cucumber bed; 1 of my own, & 5 from Kimbers.

Bror Benjamin, & wife, & Rebecca dined with us.  White water-wagtail.

Much sharp March weather.  Flights of snow, freezing all day.

The laurustines, & the young shoots of the honey-suckles are not hurt by the late frosts.

Mr Littleton Etty called.  Long tailed titmouse. Crocus’s blowing very much.  Winter aconites fade.

Rain in the night.  Humble bee.  Worms come out on grass plots: a great snail.

Began to drink tea by day light.