"Tumbling" Fulmar
It is always a pleasure to answer the call of the cliffs, but even more special when the sun is shining, the sky is blue, the wildlife is increasing and visitors are in awe of this special place! Today I spent most of my time on Bartlett Nab viewpoint, engaging with visitors and photographing the wildlife in the immediate vicinity. It was noticeable that the Gannet numbers were increasing, with some pairs already in attendance on their nests and others awaiting the return of their partner.
Gannets
"Don't come any closer with that lens!"
"Anyone would think this nest hasn't been tidied since last year!"
A gift for my beloved!
"Geronimo!"
The Fulmars are also in good numbers and very active around the cliff ledges
Fulmar
Early morning, approximately 200 Guillemots were on the cliffs below Bartlett Nab but these slowly disappeared back to sea over the course of the day, but small numbers could be seen in flight and on the sea. Around twelve Razorbills were seen in flight along the coast, with nine Shags and two Red-throated Divers on the sea. Two Harbour Porpoises were seen heading towards Filey. A small number of Rock Pipits flew along the cliff top, including this one sheltering on Bartlett Nab decking.
Good numbers of Herring Gulls could be seen (of varying ages) on and along the cliffs.
Tree Sparrows abound the visitor centre and feeding stations, with many taking an interest in the nesting boxes, and some observed to be taking in nest materials!
It is always good to be able to see the surrounding headlands, mainly because it indicates fine weather! However, today, Scarborough Castle seemed to be picked out by the sun for illumination! I would guess it is about 15miles away!
RSPB Bempton Cliffs is full of surprises and you never know what will be seen at any time of day. Late afternoon had three Short-eared Owls quartering the fields just outside of the visitor centre, much to the delight of a good number of observers. The servery and shop are also full of bargain surprises and well worth visiting after a brisk walk on the cliffs. Best of all is FREE entry to the reserve until the end of February. We hope that you will visit us soon.