A lovely day to be on the cliffs, dry and bright with a light south westerly blow an excellent day for a brisk walk on the reserve! An offshore sea fret failed to engulf the cliffs, which again saw the bird population increasing. The Guillemot numbers were in the region of 10,000, on the ledges, sea and in flight. Gannets numbers continue to increase with many pairs reuniting and evidence of nest enhancements being brought in. The Razorbills were also back on the ledges with at least 500 birds (probably more!) and Fulmars continue their busy flight routines. Herring Gulls and Shags are also evident with only the Kittiwakes and Puffins to make a show (some Puffins have been seen within the rafts of Guillemots and Razorbills on the sea, but they are very hard to spot). So what else is about?
It is great to welcome back the Razorbills on the cliffs, some still showing evidence of their winter plumage. As with the Guillemots, their presence is still transient, so seeing them on the cliffs cannot be guaranteed.
A selection of Gannets
Neighbourly squabbles are inevitable!
Fulmar
An ever present Jackdaw
Footnote: I am currently trying to get to grips with the concepts of RAW and a newer version of Photoshop Elements. It is a steep learning curve! I would appreciate and critique / feedback, positive or negative. Thank you.