Gannets, Bempton Cliffs
We've had some rather beastly weather of late, heavy rain, strong winds and very dark, dull and dismal light. Some would say great weather for finding birds, but having gotten soaked, really soaked over the last week, I don't think I agree! Today dawned bright and promising begging a long walk for myself and Symphony, with the Bempton Circular walk fitting the bill nicely!
Arriving at Buckton Pond, it was nice (but not surprising) to see the water had returned, not just in the pond but also in the scrape area at the back of the pond, created by Mark Thomas. All that is needed is the return of the birds!
Buckton Pond
The mud and puddles have returned to Hoddy Cows Lane which was devoid of bird life save a few common species - Robin, Chaffinch and Wren. However, at Hoddy Cows Spring, I was entertained by the sparring actions of two Sparrowhawks that were also mercilessly mobbed by Corvids - Carrion Crows and Magpies!
A few more birds made an appearance around the spring - Blackbirds, Redwings, Reed Buntings, Linnets, Yellowhammer and calling above, Skylarks. None allowed any photographs!
The finch flocks increased towards Buckton Cliffs, comprising mainly Goldfinches and Linnets
A lone Peregrine was stationed on Buckton Cliffs
With another / same, patrolling the Bempton Cliffs at Jubilee Corner
Also near Jubilee Corner was a distant male Ring Ousel but little else! Well beyond the capability of my 400mm prime lens!
The most numerous birds on and around the cliffs are the Gannets. Some are chilling out on the ledges and on the sea, their duty done for another year. Others, late breeders, are still servicing their Gugas. This one must be the youngest Guga on the cliffs with several weeks until it departs
With others much closer to departing
On the sea, I managed to spot at least six Guillemots, whilst flying over and on the nature trail and RAF land, good numbers of Redwings, Song Thrushes and Blackbirds were to be seen.
On the nature trail, several Goldcrests were flitting and near the pond was a Chiffchaff. Looking over the potato fields (adjacent to the top overflow car park), a small scrape has been formed and occupied by two Teal ducks. Nearby, puddles allowed bathing opportunities for Linnets, Redwings and Blackbirds. Another distant male Ring Ousel was located. It's at times like this that I wish I had my scope - you just don't know what is lurking!
The dell held several more Goldcrests with a male and female Blackcap.
The worst part of this walk has to be the return down Cliff Lane! With plenty of potential, it is usually a wilderness with no birds, at least none that are prepared to give themselves up to me!
One day, I will find a "mega", well maybe, although probably not! I won't hold my breath!
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