RSPB Bempton Cliffs

Fulmar

It is always a pleasure to answer the call of the cliffs, but even more special when the sun is shining, the sky is blue, the wildlife is increasing and visitors are in awe of this special place! Today I spent most of my time on Bartlett Nab viewpoint, engaging with visitors and photographing the wildlife in the immediate vicinity. It was noticeable that the Gannet numbers were increasing, with some pairs already in attendance on their nests and others awaiting the return of their partner.

Gannets

Don't come any closer!

Anyone would think this nest has been left unattended since last year!

A gift for my beloved!

Geronimo!

The Fulmar activity is also on the increase

Early morning, approximately 200 Guillemots were on the cliffs below Bartlett Nab but these slowly disappeared over the course of the day, but small numbers could be seen in flight and on the sea. Around twelve Razorbills were seen in flight along the coast, with nine Shags and two Red-throated Divers on the sea.

A small number of Rock Pipits flew along the cliff top, including this one sheltering on Bartlett Nab decking.

Herring Gull activity seems to be increasing with various aged birds up and down the coast. Now I know there are four age groups (juv, 1st summer, 2nd summer and 3rd summer and adult), but I am not aware of any way of sexing them. However, I do wonder if the following two images could be used?

?Male

?Female

[Sorry!]

The Tree Sparrow numbers were approximately 70 which is very encouraging.

The sun seemed to highlight Scarborough Castle this morning, which is always a good omen!

My apologies for not including the RSPB Bempton Cliffs sightings board in this blog entry, but my clumsy fingers deleted it before saving it! Sorry!