The cliffs around the Mull of Galloway are once again beginning to resonate to the sound of kittiwakes.
Although kittiwake are the most numerous of gulls, both nationally and internationally, with around 380,000 breeding pairs in the UK (8% of the global population), it is possibly the least known or recognised member of the gull family.
The reason for this is that kittiwakes are predominately oceanic birds, spending most of their lives at sea and only coming ashore during the breeding season. They nest on steep rugged cliffs around the coast, such as those here at the Mull of Galloway, and are rarely seen inland.
Kittiwakes are on the UK red list, meaning they are amongst species of the highest conservation concern. This is due to massive declines in their population in the last 30 years.
For more information on this and what you can do to help click on the link here.
Kittiwake - Photo Credit: Grahame Madge (rspb-images.com)
These gentle looking, medium-sized gulls are identifiable by their small yellow bill, black legs and dark grey wings with solid black wing tips, often described as looking like they have been 'dipped in ink'.
Other gulls that you may spot if you were to pay us a visit include great black-backed gulls, lesser black-backed gulls and herring gulls.
Guillemot and razorbill numbers have also begun to increase around the headland, on and off the cliffs and black guillemot are seen frequently on the water.
Black guillemot - Photo Credit: Robert Conn
The number of shag seen nesting on the cliffs is rising and are often seen flying back to the cliffs carrying vegetation to add to their nests.
Gannet continue to delight with their graceful gliding and dazzling diving skills as they patrol over the open water while harbour porpoise and grey seal occasionally protrude from beneath the waves.
Grey seal - Photo Credit: Robert Conn
On the heathland stonechat have been spotted carrying food, a strong indicator they are feeding young, whilst meadow pipit continue to display and engage in territory battles.
Wheatear, pied wagtail, rock pipit and linnet can be seen around most of the reserve and goldfinch, wren, reed bunting and blackcap have all been spotted amongst the willow patch as have house sparrow, an uncommon sighting for here.
House sparrow - Photo Credit: Robert Conn
Peregrine have been seen around the cliffs and house martin and swallow sightings are becoming more frequent.
Other wildlife include roe deer, brown hare, stoat, 7 spot ladybird, buff-tailed bumble bee, small white butterfly, green-veined white butterfly and fox moth caterpillar along with an ever expanding range of wildflowers.
To discover more about RSPB Mull of Galloway, its wildlife and upcoming events click here.