Mid Autumn on Bempton Cliffs - 21st October 2018

One of the few remaining Gannets with its Guga

A rather pleasant Autumnal day greeted us on the cliffs today, sunshine, blue sky with a strength variable south west wind. Sadly, it is the time of year when nearly all of the Gannets depart the cliffs, which now look naked and it is very quiet. A few still remain and a few are still supporting their young (Gugas). Thousands of Gannets can be seen in flight or on the sea. Overhead migration continued, albeit less obvious than previous weeks with few Thrushes but mainly Skylarks. Some lucky observers were treated to a ringtail Hen Harrier in off the sea!

So, what was about today? Todays Sightings:

I just managed to capture the light as the sun rose over Staple Newk rock

The nakedness of Staple Newk rock although a Gannet and Guga can just be seen to the left of the "U" shape

At Jubilee Corner viewpoint there were still about nine Gannets on the cliffs, one still with a Guga. It was here that I spotted a very strange Gannet - part adult and part guga!

Some of the few remaining Gannets at Jubilee Corner

Gannet and ready to fledge Guga on Staple Newk

Me and my shadow...…

Most of the Gannets are out over the sea

The following images are sad and distressing.

I have included them to highlight the increasing dangers to our wildlife from man made materials. Gannets will pick up many items for their nests including natural materials but also manmade rope, netting, fishing lines, plastic etc. This Guga desperately needs to fledge but is tethered by what appears to be rope / fishing line. It is firmly entwined around its leg preventing it leaving the cliff. It is also in a very inaccessible area. The prognosis is not good. So sad.

Post Script - Good News!

The Guga has been rescued by a joint RSPCA / RSPB team and is now undergoing treatment at a rescue centre. It will be released when fully recovered to hopefully migrate south and continue to thrive. Well done to all concerned!