Skewered by a Skua

I normally only see Great Skuas from behind as they disappear along the cliffs. They have a wonderful habit of cruising up to you unawares.

Not this time, though. We’ve learnt to spot them from far off now, despite them flying fast and low. They really are ‘under-the-radar’ birds. A cry of “Skua!” goes up whenever we see one approach. That’s how I photographed these:

They are deeply impressive beasts, with massive hooked beaks and talons to match. They are definitely the pirates of the air:

There’s one coming in fast and low now:

Its pointed wings are swift and sleek, yet its body is barrel chested and powerful:

They swoop over the sea:

And power through the air.

They are magnificent.