With spring drawing to a close, life in the colony is in full swing with the focus being chicks of all sizes - and indeed shapes - being tended by busy parents. Prize for the laziest (and most random shaped) chicks continues to go to Gannet!
Highlights over the last few weeks have included a Quail heard calling from the large wheat field near to New Roll Up viewpoint, always a bird impossible to see and a Bonxie (Great Skua) occasionally being seen offshore. Sedge and Willow Warbler are still singing around the reserve, the latter not a rare bird, but one which doesn't normally spend the summer on the reserve. Also proving popular on the cliffs are regular sightings of Peregrines, often seen incredibly well from the viewpoints.
Look out for the occasional Yellowhammer at the feeding station joining the throngs of Tree Sparrows and in the now colourful grasslands, Northern Marsh Orchids are appearing amongst the mass of Red Campion. A walk on the trails through the grassy meadows accompanied by the sounds of singing Skylarks is a must.