The above photo shows the remarkable opportunity that exists at this Reserve, to get close to our large sea birds. Each year, I make a visit to Bempton to see the breeding seabirds, although I have to admit, the fact that a Black-browed Albatross passed through the day before did have a lot to do with it! The Northern Gannet is magnificent and I've tried to capture some interesting images on my visit. Constant courtship going on at the moment. A careful arrival at the cliff face. A nice fly past. The Puffins are settling in for the season. I haven't seen one collecting material for its burrow before, so this was something new for me. A 'tubenose' Fulmar passing along the cliffs. A Razorbill showing the yellow tongue.
The sun was quite strong on this morning and quite a few birds were adopting a 'gaping' posture, with the bill slightly open. Also at Bempton were 2 Short-eared Owls and a Barn Owl, showing well in the fields behind the cliffs. There were many visitors on the Reserve, clearly due to the recent Albatross sighting. I was told it had been seen that morning (19th) and photographed but didn't see any subsequent evidence. I was there at 7-00 am and did seven hours watching, it was alarming how many people were shouting 'albatross' at two-year old Gannets!! Additionally, an albatross was reported on the German coast, the same afternoon. Comments are closed.
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