Peregrine
It wasn't bird less but it certainly felt like it at times today! The weather was fine with sunny periods but a challenging west north west wind did its best to reduce what were mild temperatures. Approaching the reserve, two Red Legged Partridges ran for cover and a Barn Owl quartered the fields east of the visitor centre for most of the morning. Arriving at the cliffs, there was silence! No guttural growling, so no Guillemots, although three were seen on the sea. Fulmars were flying close in but even they disappeared by lunchtime. Gannets flew north but only numbered fifteen. It can't be long before the first Gannets return to the cliffs, usually by the end of January.
So, what was seen today?
Today, I walked the whole reserve and interestingly found most of the passerines beyond Jubilee Corner at Buckton Cliffs where Skylarks, Yellowhammers, Corn Buntings, Meadow Pipits and a Stonechat were in good numbers. Likewise, the set aside land beyond Staple Newk held a large flock of Linnets and more Corn Buntings. Of course, the biggest challenge was to get a photograph of them, a challenge that I failed miserably!
Thankfully, one of the local Peregrines made an appearance over Staple Newk
Gannets moved north in ones and twos, but never close. Interestingly, this is a year 4 Gannet
Fulmars were at their most in the morning, gradually disappearing by afternoon. This one remained on the cliff at Grandstand
However, when the birds are absent, the unashamed nakedness of the cliffs, the atmospheric light and views make visiting worthwhile.
Now, a 300mm lens with a 2x converter is not the first choice for landscape photography! However, standing on Bartlett Nab viewpoint, Scarborough Castle begged to be photographed!
Overall, although challenging and hard work, it was by no means a disaster. After all, five year ticks can't be bad! Maybe next week, Gannets may have returned to the cliffs!
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