The most numerous birds on the cliffs and sea today were the Gannets. The Auks had deserted to the cliff ledges, but small numbers could be seen in flight with a few more in rafts. Fulmars seemed to be fewer in numbers and Kittiwake rafts were distant on the sea. A Barn Owl hunted the grasslands and a Peregrine was seen flying along the cliffs. The grasslands held good numbers of Meadow Pipits and Skylarks but much was probably hunkered down in the strong south westerly blow. Today was a Gannet day!
Gannets can often be seen "ragging" the cliff top vegetation, collecting "gifts" for their partner. These "gifts" can also be of seaweed, rope, fishing line et.al. The gift is presented to the partner and received with affection, before being placed into the nest. It is believed that these actions strengthen the lifetime bond of Gannets (and most other seabirds). Looking at Gannet nests, you can see what is being used as material and the bigger the nest the longer the birds have been of breeding age. New breeders have much smaller nests, while often, the older nests merge into one massive nest, shared by several birds.
Ragging the cliff vegetation
Presentation to partner
A typical Gannet greeting
Gannet portraits
Gannets in flight
Thank you for looking.
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