Previously “Diary of a Birding Medic”; “Rugby Birder”; "Bempton Birder”. All views expressed in this blog are my OWN and do not represent the opinions or policies of any organisations or entities whatsoever with whom I have been, am now or will be affiliated. Reference to Bempton Cliffs in NO way promotes the organisation known as RSPB Bempton Cliffs, but rather the FREEdom of the cliffs.

Monday, 23 September 2019

Bempton Cliffs - 22nd September 2019


Gannet bowing indicating nest / site ownership

A very pleasant autumnal day with plenty of sunshine and an increasing south easterly blow.

A good day for seeing wildlife on land, cliffs, sea and in the air. This is what was seen throughout the day:


My job is done!


I arrived back here in April, waited for my partner, mated, shared incubation of our egg for c45days, serviced our Guga for c90 days until it fledged! I think I'm now entitled to some "me" time!

There are still good numbers of Gannets with Guga's on the cliffs but these (near Bartlett Nab are probably the youngest at c 10/11 weeks meaning they still have c20 days until they fledge!



It takes five years for a Gannet to mature into adult plumage. We are now seeing all age groups on the reserve! The darker they are, the younger they are.

Year 1 Gannet



Year 3 Gannets



Year 4 Gannets




Year 5+ Gannet (Mature)


Gannets can be quarrelsome birds both on and off the cliffs! Here two Gannets have a squabble on the sea




There are still a few Fulmars about



Greater Black Backed Gull


Keep 'em peeled!

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