Loving Gannet family!
An interesting morning on the cliffs, more so as the persistent rain forecast failed to last more than twenty minutes! Although most of the Auks have moved back out to sea, a few Puffins are still being seen in flight with some still bring small fish back to the cliffs. Today, I observed a very late Razorbill flying on to the cliffs below Bartlett Nab with a bill full of fish!! Harbour Porpoises continue to show well but my personal quest to see a Whale has not been fulfilled. Indeed, I'm beginning to think I stand more chance of observing Unicorns mating than seeing a Whale!
So, what is still being seen on the cliffs?
With the breeding season for Auks now over, attention is being turned to the largest UK seabird the Gannet.
You cannot fail to be impressed with these massive birds!
It takes five years for the Gannets to mature. Generally, the darker they are, the younger they are. As far as I know, none of this years Gugas have fledged at Bempton. However, it is possible to see immature Gannets around the cliffs.
Year 2 Gannet
Year 3 Gannet
Year 4 Gannet
Dinner is served! Although two siblings have already fledged and left the cliffs, this young Herring Gull is still receiving parental support! Burp!
On the rocks below Bartlett Nab, juvenile Shags being fed by their parents can be regularly seen!
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