The Mull of Galloway has been bursting at the seams with migrating birds this week. With gentle winds and some sunshine(!) it’s a great time to visit!
The shrubs behind the RSPB visitor centre provide shelter for migrating birds, stopping off on their journeys south. It can provide some much needed respite for small birds and this week has supported Willow warblers, Chiffchaffs, Chaffinches, Whitethroats, Redpolls and tiny Goldcrests. With flies and other insects highly abundant, there is lots of food around for migrating Swallows and House Martins.
Chiffchaffs are on the move (photo by Laura Shearer)
Meadow Pipit passing through the RSPB Mull of Galloway (photo Laura Shearer)
Seawatching from the RSPB Mull of Galloway has been a delight with Harbour Porpoise seen each day this week. They have been spotted feeding below the lighthouse and can be seen with the naked eye, jumping out the water and generally having a good time. With the autumn progressing (although this sunshine may suggest otherwise) wading birds and divers have been on the move with Great Northern Divers seen passing the cliffs and moving into Luce Bay for the winter. Both Arctic Skuas and Great Skuas have been recorded patrolling the area in search of an easy meal.
Interested in migrating birds? Remember to join us on our Visible Migration Festival on October 3rd.