Bempton Cliffs - 28th April 2019

Fulmar

Another fantastic day on Bempton Cliffs! The weather started very overcast with hints of light rain, but this soon dispersed into sunny periods, but the north west wind remained strong and cold. The advantage of the wind was the mesmerising spectacle of seabirds "hanging" on the updrafts. Although the breeding season is only just getting underway, increased mating rituals are regularly observed and eggs are being seen (Gannet, Guillemot, Razorbill and Puffin). Visitor numbers are increasing dramatically and a big cheer to the staff and volunteers ensuring their experiences are positive!

So, what was seen today?

Today, I managed to touch base with the two Short Eared Owls (year tick) hunting the fields to the right of the main car park!

The birds on the cliffs certainly provide good entertainment! Two Herring Gulls (I call them marmite gulls 'cos I love 'em!), were attempting to build a nest on an exposed area of the cliffs. No sooner did they deposit nesting materials at their chosen spot, the strong wind blew it all away! Eventually they gave up!

The Kittiwakes were in very good voice both on the cliffs and in flight

And a few squabbles were witnessed

So, what about the Puffins? Were they easy to see and in good numbers? You bet they were! One of the terms used to describe a group of Puffins is a "circus". These three birds lived up to their group name as "tumblers"!

Not to be outdone -

Guillemot

Razorbills

Gannets

And a spring migrant, Common Whitethroat

There is one bird on the cliffs that melts the heart of visitors, photographers in particular! It makes people weak at the knees and induces great excitement and wows! What is this bird? It is of course, the Puffin! Here is a "Puffin Fest" to end todays blog!