Curious sounds of guttural cackling, quacking, and grunting draw attention along the cliffs this morning, where Fulmar courtship takes place. It was an absolute highlight of my walk to watch multiple birds compete for the attention of a single bird sat comfortably upon its rocky promontory.
In turn the birds carry out a courtship ritual; their bills clatter and heads swing; beaks agape as they cackle to one another. At times a third and even fourth competitor attempts to land, but more often doesn’t gain any footing and swoops back away in it’s looping flight.
Below, Herring Gulls in flight, and auks rafting upon the water. A large group of over a hundred Guillemot below their breeding ledge. Trills echoing along the cliffs. Further along, a second smaller raft, but predominately Razorbill, about 20 in number, and identified by their broader bill and darker plumage.
Also to be enjoyed, is the lofty flight of the Shags. Often flying close to the water and utilising the ground effect for energy conservation and efficiency: Where air pressure is increased between the bird and the water at closer proximity, and therefore provides more lift beneath the birds wings.
Just in front of me, a little Rock Pipit is busy fluttering along the cliff edge. Jackdaw clatter amongst the Tamarisk and flock together in flight. Woodpigeons also on the wing, and a few perched on the rocks above Tilly Whim. Up close, truly beautiful birds with shimmers of green and purple. Another couple birds contrasting altogether with a lovely brown plumage instead of the usual grey.