Fulmar
A pleasant day on the cliffs, initially overcast but with sunny intervals developing later. A cool, strengthening north westerly blow antagonised slightly! Gannet numbers are increasing daily with many appearing on their nests and more in flight and on the sea. Similarly, Fulmar numbers are increasing. Some of the Shags are getting their breeding crests and Cormorants are gaining their breeding white patches. It was not a Guillemot day, but c70 were seen on the sea at a distance. Barn Owls continue to hunt the cliff top grasslands during the day.
So what was seen on the reserve today?
First birds of the day were two feisty Pheasants having a fight / stand off on the approach to the reserve, adding a little colour to the overcast start to the day.
Approaching Bartlett Nab viewpoint, this Carrion Crow begged for its image to be taken! I think it looks better in black and white.
Gannets are increasing in number on the cliffs, on the sea and in flight. Some pairs are present whilst others await the return of their life time partners.
And, of course, the Fulmars. Fulmars are the most loyal birds to the cliffs at Bempton, spending eleven months of the year in the vicinity. Some of the birds can be seen on their traditional nest ledges, even though they are late breeders, not laying their egg until late May / early June.
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