Gannet on the water
I’m used to seeing Gannets flying at head height. Since their colonisation of Noup Head cliffs, their numbers have soared like a Gannet and the cliffs are alive with their calls.
One view I’ve never had up close is of a Gannet on the waves. They ride surprisingly high up. They’re very buoyant.
It’s a glorious view from the Orkney ferry to Westray. Current mood: buoyant.
More glorious Gannets
Fine adjustments When you're heading vertically downwards at an eye-bulging speed, aiming for a moving target, it's useful to be able to… read more
Extra nesting material It's a little late for this Gannet to start bringing back more seaplants to the nest. Their chick is already… read more
Hungry chick We're on the cliffs of Westray at Noup Head lighthouse, hanging over the edge again. I don't like heights. There's… read more
Arrow As the weather in Orkney has been so idyllic, I've been out with my camera for many, many hours, including… read more
Gannet flypast on Kelly’s Hero Can you see this Gannet's blinking its third eyelid, its nictitating membrane? That reminds me, I must clean my glasses… read more
2022 highlights of a wilder Orkney life (part 2) August in Orkney can be quieter than May, June or July when it comes to bird life. In 2022, August… read more
Gannetry There's a Northern Gannet colony at Noup Head on Westray. Whenever there's a breeze in the right direction the Gannets… read more
Dive! Dive! Dive! A joyous trip to Brixham breakwater was rewarded with a procession of diving Northern Gannets. Marvellous, aren't they? read more
2021 highlights of a wilder Orkney life I had a wonderful time on Westray in Orkney in 2021. The Puffins returned to breed and provided constant entertainment… read more