Previously “Diary of a Birding Medic”; “Rugby Birder”; "Bempton Birder”. All views expressed in this blog are my OWN and do not represent the opinions or policies of any organisations or entities whatsoever with whom I have been, am now or will be affiliated. Reference to Bempton Cliffs in NO way promotes the organisation known as RSPB Bempton Cliffs, but rather the FREEdom of the cliffs.

Monday, 22 May 2017

RSPB Bempton Cliffs - 21st May 2017

Kittiwake

My call to the cliffs was loud and clear but a message from the Flamborough Bird Observatory impacted on my journey when a Red Breasted Flycatcher was caught and ringed at Buckton! A rather worn female was on show, my first flycatcher species this year. No image though as I do not photograph birds in the hand. Onward to the cliffs and a fine, sunny mild day, plus of course the sight, sound and smells of a 250,000+ birds in the seabird city!

I-spy with my little eye something beginning with P! The answer was, of course Puffin, but what a challenge (again) to see these birds on the cliffs!


Many of the puffins are probably on egg in their tunnels in the chalk with their partners "chilling" on the sea before exchanging duties. Puffins could be seen in flight and in the rafts on the sea, but being in the right place at the right time did give some fair views!






Kittiwakes are one of the prettiest birds on the cliffs!


And this one with eggs


Gannets continue to dominate the seabird city and gather "gifts" for their beloved and ultimately building the gift into their nests







Immature and non-breeding adults form "clubs" on the cliffs. Arguments frequently occur!




Razorbills

And streeeeeetch!


Razorbill love!

The Yorkshire Belle below Bartlett Nab with a RSPB Puffin cruise


And finally, todays sightings:


2 comments:

  1. Lovely pictures....I was in the Yorkshire Belle that day :-) enjoying the puffin cruise. Keep up the good work.

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  2. Thank you Jayanta. I'm sure you will have had a great cruise - did you follow it up with a visit to the reserve?

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