I usually write this blog in the evening but for the last few nights we've been out trying to assess how many chough are coming in to roost on Ramsey in the evenings. The answer seems to be a lot! We're heading out again this evening so I'll post something a bit more comprehensive tomorrow, hopefully with some half decent photos and video (don't hold me to that though!)
The title of this blog however refers to another bird that commands attention and is sought after by many of our visitors, the peregrine falcon. This bird has a long association with the island, sought after by Kings of England back in the day as it was felt the peregrines of Pembrokeshire made the best falconry birds. There are tales of chicks being taken annually from the island and transported to London to keep the noblemen happy. One of the islets of the south end of Ramsey is called Ynys Beri, reference to an old Welsh world for 'falcon'. Now fully protected (although persecution still occurs only too commonly unfortunately) these majestic birds are safe on Ramsey and usually put on a fine display for our visitors. This year it looks like we have 3 pairs breeding. I felt very lucky to stumble across this stunning individual a few days ago, sitting on top of our highest point, Carn Llundain, lord of all he surveyed.
Peregrine falcon on Ramsey (photo: G Morgan)
Just a short blog tonight as we scoff down our dinner and get ready to head over to the chough roost - as I said above, hopefully more on that tomorrow
I will leave you with a beautiful short film and poem I discovered on Twitter today. The words really resonated with me and I'm sure they will with anyone who can relate to their meaning. And if you haven't experienced it yet, try it one day...I can recommend it
If Once You Have Slept On An Island - Poem written by Rachel Field, Filmed and produced by Alistair Corbett