The seabird breeding season is well underway on the Mull of Galloway and the cliffs are buzzing with life. Some of the Guillemot and Razorbill eggs have hatched and tiny little chicks can be seen sheltering underneath the wing of their protective parents. It can be a scary world out there for these chicks as Herring and Greater Black-backed gulls patrol the cliffs in search for an easy meal.
Razorbill brooding its chick (image by Laura Shearer)
Guillemot chicks are doing well (image by Laura Shearer)
At only 3 weeks old, the chicks must make their way to the sea in order to learn how to fish. The adult male bird will call from the sea and with some encouragement (and occasionally a nudge from the mother) the chick will make their way to the edge of the cliff and then jump! Our cliffs reach a staggering 85m in some areas- a mean feat for a tiny chick! Some may take a tumble as they jump however after a shake of the head they are on their way to start their new life at sea. The father will continue to tend to the chick for several weeks, showing it how to fish and to fend for itself.
Guillemot chick being led to the sea by its parent (image by Laura Shearer)
Guillemot "jumplings" need to learn to swim, fish and fend for itself (image by Laura Shearer)
Puffins have been making regular appearances around the reserve this summer, spotted fishing amongst the rafting Guillemots and Razorbills on the water. Historically puffins nested on the Mull of Galloway however due to predation pressures it is believed these birds moved to the more suitable RSPB Ailsa Craig. The Mull of Galloway has annual visits from these “sea parrots” however we had a record ever count of 48 seen on Monday 15th. Despite having multi-coloured bills, they are often difficult to pick out so when you are visiting, pop into the RSPB visitor centre for advice on how to see these magnificent birds.
Puffins rafting off the Mull of Galloway (image by Laura Shearer)