(male) Snow Bunting
The cliffs called loud and clear this morning and after a grey, cool start, developed into a lovely, mild, sunny day. The birds were obligingly evident, wowing visitors and lifting everyone's spirits. The RSPB Seabird Centre is now open from 0830hrs in the morning until July but closes at 1700hrs. Todays sightings:
A male Snow Bunting had been reported in the ploughed field near to Jubilee Corner viewpoint so this was my first port of call! Initially the bird could not be located, but patience paid off and it soon gave stonking views as it searched the furrows for food. Indeed, as it approached closer, I found the bird too close for my camera to focus! I did not want to move back for fear of disturbing the bird and causing it to fly back into the furrows, detrimental to the growing group of admirers!
The Puffins showed really well from all of our six viewpoints, on the sea and in flight. The pair that nest very close to Grandstand viewpoint are back and have carried nest material of dry grass into the nest tunnel, as well as showing they are comfortable to be home! Did you know that Puffins have a toilet area in their nest tunnels? Considering they spend c40days incubating their eggs and c40days raising their Puffling, a toileting "en-suite" sounds great!
Most people associate Herring Gulls as vicious (but likeable) rogues, always ready to attack you in order to steal your fish and chips! However, they are in steep decline and conservation wise are red listed. This pair of Herring Gulls are doing their best to bolster their numbers!
Kittiwakes are beautiful birds and can be seen very close to the viewpoints on their nests.
However, could this one be "Count Kittiwake Dracula"?
And Streeeeeeeeeeetch! Razorbill
Razorbills lining up for "love bites" or could this one be "Count Razorbill Dracula"?
And, from above, Gannets displaying
When you are on the reserve, there are many friendly staff members who are very approachable and very knowledgeable. We will be more than pleased to answer any questions, identify the birds and wildlife and locate species on the cliffs so that you go home feeling WOW! Today, a lady approached me with a random and totally unexpected question "Do birds have penises?"! I'm not sure that my answer of "yes, sort of and most birds mate by joining their cloacas in a “cloacal kiss”; muscular contractions transfer the sperm from the male to female. Well it certainly beats "Where are the Puffins?"!
It will be nice to see you Alan! There are no silly or awkward questions just gaining in knowledge! It is forecast to be a great day as well. If you make it, I will be there so say hello!