The "Auks" are back in Town! (But will they stay or will they go?)
I was awakened this morning by the call of the cliffs but opened the curtains to a dark, dull, drizzly and misty start! Today, I decided, was going to be full of challenges and we love challenges, don't we? Most readers will agree that RSPB Bempton Cliffs is an amazing place in all conditions. Last week, the first week of March, was amazing due to the fact that hundreds of Puffins were being seen on the water, close to the cliffs! Today was even more amazing with dozens of Puffins actually ON the cliffs! This seems so early! They were, of course in good company with hundreds of Razorbills and thousands of Guillemots also on the ledges! The question is, of course, "will they stay or will they go?" Nothing in nature is set in tablets of stone! Watch this space! I mentioned above that we love challenges! Todays challenge (well this mornings) was the poor light, especially for images! I just couldn't get speed with manual ISO settings, so I set my camera to auto ISO. The downside with this, of course, is grainy images (cue workmen blaming tools!). Typically, as I write this and process my images, the sun is shining and the sky is blue! Lets start with everyone's favourite - Puffins!
Guardian of Bartlett Nab, objecting to my arrival!
Around 2% of Bempton's Guillemot population are Bridled, not a separate species, but additional pigmentation gives the impression of wearing spectacles!
Gannets are busily collecting nest material
While some Gannets decide to fight! (400ft/120m below Bartlett Nab!)
While life on the ledges progresses...........
Fulmar
Razorbills
Guillemots
Kittiwake
Herring Gull
Jackdaw
Rock Pipit
The visitor centre is open throughout March from 0930 until 1700hrs where you can chat to our friendly staff, browse the well stocked shop or enjoy a snack and drink at our server. When you venture out for a walk on the reserve, please remember to have waterproof/windproof clothing and stout footwear available.