NATURE has always played a large part in my life. However, like many others, my fascination with the natural world has undergone quite a transformation over the years. Once, I would roam the fields and woods in the hope that fur or feather might provide a free meal.

These days, I am merely content to observe - I would not have the heart to kill for the pot, even though, as an occasional carnivore, this is an entirely hypocritical stance. In fact, as the years fly by, the more of a protectionist I become. I have defended all manner of predatory creatures in the past, arguing that they should not be killed just because of that fact.

Foxes and peregrines have all found sanctuary in the folds of Phillpott's cloak. However, I do sometimes wonder whether some force or forces are combining to test my resolve, to see whether I can remain true to my word.

As recounted in these columns, last April we lost a rabbit to Reynard. The cunning devil found a chink in the defences and was in like a shot. Then late one night, two weeks later, I followed the killer home. He walked down the middle of The Hill Avenue, occasionally turning round to meet my gaze, as if to say: "Your rabbit was delicious. Thank you so much."

A few days ago, I went out of the back door to put Edward in his little house. The poor old hare's headless body was sprawled across the run. There was no sign of a struggle, no clumps of fur or scattered bedding that might point to a last-ditch lunge for the hutch and the hoped-for safety.

I looked long and hard at the murder scene. This was death that arrived unannounced, out of nowhere, without warning... silently. It must have been a peregrine that had hit poor Edward and taken the only item that it could have possibly carried away.

So, as you can see, I'm being tested. Hopefully, I will pass with flying colours.

For despite all this, nothing will make me demonise animals that are only doing what they must. Mind you, I have also championed cormorants in the past. What could these oily-sleek hunters have in mind for me?