Mallimack
Along the Westray coast are hundreds of Fulmars’ nests. Their fluffy chicks are a constant surprise while scrambling among the rocks. They spit rancid fish oil at intruders, which explains their local name, Mallimack, or ‘bad mouth’. They are such a contrast with the elegant adults wheeling and swirling overhead.
They are the most adept of fliers. They will often ‘patrol’ the coastline and fly without a single flap of their wings.
They have effortless beauty. ‘Bad mouth’ doesn’t come anywhere near describing them.
More Mallimacks
Mallimack life Fulmars are my favourite birds to watch flying. They have an effortless confidence on the wind, and glide with stiff… read more
One dramatic evening It's a dramatic evening, already quite dark, yet this Fulmar is still flying. The sun is lighting up the high… read more
Mallimacks We're aboard the Ailsa Jane and I'm taking advantage of the creel boat having a very low side where the… read more
Alternative nesting sites On the cliffs of Westray are two Fulmar resting places. They're both in the north-end of the island. One is… read more
A Fulmar at the skeleton house A Fulmar from summer, sitting pretty on the top of a wall in the skeleton house. Its beached carcass and… read more
If ever I could fly Of all the birds of the sea, the greatest fliers are the Fulmars: There is no bird so alive to… read more
2019 highlights of a wilder Orkney life The turning of the year is always a great time for reflection. Celebrating the darkest day with the thought that… read more
