Glorious Gannets
My call to the cliffs this morning was delivered on a band of rain which only lasted until c0900hrs whereby the day developed into a mild, pleasant and sunny day. The "seabird city" is now well advanced delivering to all the three "S's" - Sight, sound and smell! All of the "Bempton 8" breeding seabirds were present, but one was playing hard to see - yes, the Puffin! There are no guarantees in nature and today the Puffins challenged us harshly with only one or two showing well.
Todays Sightings:
Some of the Kittiwakes are now on eggs but many are still gathering mud and vegetation to supplement their nests.
The glorious Gannets continue to show well
Four year old Gannets getting friendly!
This Gannet reminds me of my maths teacher many years ago!
This Herring Gull is trying to impress with some yoga!
Approximately 2% of the Guillemots at Bempton are Bridled with this number increasing the further north you travel. It is not a separate species but merely pigmentation.
The higher you are on the cliffs can be beneficial as you are less likely to be "pooped" on!
Part of Bemptons "seabird city"
A lot of these Gannets are non-breeding birds or juveniles. They associate on the cliffs in what is known as a "club".
The sea today has calmed dramatically and fishing boats are able to tend the lobster/crab pots below the cliffs. This boats name aptly describes RSPB Bempton Cliffs!
Thank you Christine. I'm sure you will enjoy Bempton in all its glory! Its a great time to visit. You will dip out on one species, however, I wont be on the cliffs until Sunday!