Solan Goose

There’s time for a quick trip to Noup Head. Dramatic cliffs, tens of thousands of seabirds, breathtaking views over the Ocean. What’s not to like?

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

Well, the smell, obviously. Fish that’s been fermented by a seabird has a distinctive whiff.

These Gannets are having a bit of pair bonding time.

Noup Head - Westray - The Hall of Einar - photograph (c) David Bailey (not the)

Which reminds me I haven’t seen the Puffin Whisperer since the pandemic started.

This Northern Gannet is wider than I am tall when it’s flying.

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

When you imagined the comparison did you rotate me horizontal or did you tip this Gannet vertical?

The UK has two thirds of the world’s Northern Gannets breeding on its shores. We ought to be celebrating them and treasuring them. I love when the wind forces hammered-copper patterns on their pure white breast feathers.

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

I’ve had so many great experiences with them here.

Up to 2,000 Gannet chicks are licensed to be killed and eaten in North West Scotland every year. Thankfully, not here.

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