The flight feathers of the Tappie Whaesie

How amazing is flight?

Shag - The Hall of Einar - photograph (c) David Bailey (not the)

These young Shags are just getting their new flight feathers. Some feathers are still emerging and unfurling. One of their Orkney names is Tappie Whaesie.

Shag - The Hall of Einar - photograph (c) David Bailey (not the)

This one doesn’t look very waterproof. Its feathers are very worn. There’s a bit of oiling and preening to do.

Shag - The Hall of Einar - photograph (c) David Bailey (not the)

I love the way they hurtle across the waves.

Shag - The Hall of Einar - photograph (c) David Bailey (not the)
Shag - The Hall of Einar - photograph (c) David Bailey (not the)

What an amazing transformation.

Shag - The Hall of Einar - photograph (c) David Bailey (not the)

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