Razorbill
The weather forecast was (as usual) better than predicted with sunny periods but becoming overcast during the afternoon. The wind was strong and cold. Arriving at the viewpoints it was obviously going to be a WOW day with all of the eight breeding seabirds on the ledges, in flight and on the sea. It was particularly good to see and hear Kittiwakes back on their nests. Puffins were present, very elusive and small in number. Some visitors reported seeing some on the sea, but I was lucky enough to see five, distantly on the cliffs at Grandstand viewpoint.
Puffin
So what was seen ? Todays Sightings:
There were late reports of two Short-eared Owls and a flock of c60 Corn Buntings.
It was good to see and here Kittiwakes back on their nests. Despite them being one of the prettiest birds, I often relate to them as "vampire" birds due to the colour inside their mouths!
Razorbills
Up a bit, bit more, oooooh!
"Now where is that photographer?"
Guillemots
A comparison of Bridled Guillemot with Common Guillemot. Bridled have the white "spectacles"
Fulmars
"Fulmar Fest!"
Gannet Life!
Spot the "ghost" bird!
There is always one! Nigel on the left wanted "in" on this image!
Many Gannets can be seen gathering and bringing gifts to their partner
The "gift" once gratefully received is placed into the nest, thus building the size of the nest over years
"Tender moments"! Or are they? Male Gannets are renowned for vicious looking mating! This is also how you tell the sexes of seabirds!!
Signalling "that's it"!
See you later!
Gannets "sky point" to indicate movement, usually leaving the cliff. Listen out for the call they make as they "geronimo" dive!
Nature can appear cruel and with a colony the size of Bemptons, some deaths are inevitable. However, with the death of one species, another will "clean up"!
Puffin lunch
Razorbill lunch
I doubt if there are any "pure" Rock Doves left in the UK and here is why!
Seal encounter!
Remember, "Keep 'em peeled"! You just don't know what you will see!!
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