Having lived just across the estuary from Harwich for nearly twenty-two years it came as a surprise to learn that not only was there a breeding colony of common seals nearby but also regular boat trips out to see them. Limpy and I lost no time in booking our places and, on a sunny Friday a few weeks ago, off we went!
Ha'penny Pier in Harwich is clearly a popular hanging-out spot:
An inquisitive young starling
A beautifully patterned feral pigeon
After setting out from the pier it became obvious that we weren't the only ones who thought it was a good day for boating:
I love seeing sailing boats and this one really stood out from the busy Port of Felixstowe.
It didn't take us too long to reach Hamford Water NNR, where our cameras promptly went into overdrive:
We were told that deposits in the mud gave the seals their varying (and temporary) colours.
It was joyful to see so many of the seals with young!
Nothing like a nice swim.
Awwwwwww!
We didn't just see seals, though:
A beautiful curlew
A noisy oystercatcher.
All too soon it was time to return to Harwich - yup, time for more boats:
This useful service runs between Felixstowe, Harwich and Shotley.
Felixstowe still operates a roll-on, roll-off terminal for these ships.
The local pilot service
The RNLI Albert Brown. Don't they do a fantastic job?
Finishing with the Gloria, the boat we went out in. What a great time we had!
Our herring gulls are red listed birds. Think about that the next time you hear some flaming idiot calling for a cull of them.
What a fabulous boat trip Clare, and Limpy.
I think my camera would have been into overdrive as well, especially for the seals. Thank you for sharing
Mike
Flickr: Peak Rambler
Pete
Birding is for everyone no matter how good or bad we are at it,enjoy it while you can
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Regards, Hazel
Clare Bailey said:Did your household stuff come back through Felixstowe when you returned????
No Clare, From what I remember it came through London on return.