Goldfinch
'twas the Sunday before Christmas, when all on the cliffs
Actually, he has already been and a gift has been left in the form of a brand new viewpoint at Staple Newk! Not yet open to the public, with a few remaining finishing touches to be performed, the excitement is already contagious, what a superb Christmas gift to RSPB Bempton! The New Staple Newk Viewpoint (opening soon!)
Seeing the new viewpoint made me want to sing out loud in joyous celebration, but then my memory kicks in, reminding me (1) I don't know the words to any songs and (2) I can't sing!
The cliff top walk is invigorating at any time of the year and the views are second to none!
Staple Newk
From Bartlett Nab
Apart from looking in awe at the Staple Newk Viewpoint, I was determined to walk the length of the reserve and visit all of the viewpoints to see what wildlife is still on offer. Notables today included - Grey Seal; 6 Gannets; 100+ Fulmars; 7 Shags; 3 Great Black Backed Gulls; 30+ Herring Gulls; 3 (possibly 4) Short Eared Owls; Kestrel; Tree Sparrows; pair of Stonechats; Great Spotted Woodpecker; Skylarks; Meadow Pipits; 3 Rock Pipits and two Reed Buntings.
Grey Seal watching me watching him!
Great Black Backed Gull
Fulmar
Herring Gull
Late afternoon, as the light fades, and enjoying a coffee at the Seabird Centre, three (possibly 4) Short Eared Owls come out to hunt and entertain our visitors! (and to provide a challenge for the photographers, needing maximum ISO, but the event was recorded!).
Well, Christmas is almost upon us and our thoughts turn to celebrations but nature carries on as normal. The cliffs will be open for those post Christmas Dinner walks, but the Seabird Centre will be closed on Christmas Day. Why not pop in after Christmas for an invigorating walk, some retail therapy and a warm drink and snack to end a pleasant day?
Happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year and I shall be looking forward to meeting visitors on the cliffs again on New Years Day!