Sandwich Tern

I’ve seen Sandwich Terns before, but only briefly. There’s one parading along the beach at the 3rd Churchill Barrier in Orkney and I’m enjoying getting stunning views as it follows along the shore.

Lovely, aren’t they?

Here’s one diving from a great height and at a shockingly-high speed into the relatively calm turquoise waters in search of fish.

When they emerge from the water they must give themselves a serious shake, just like a dog, to remove the water which has penetrated their feathers. That means twisting their head as well as their tail. It’s only a brief contortion, but spectacular when caught with a brief exposure:

And finally, after standing for half a day, getting aching arms and a sunburnt neck, I get the photograph I wanted:

It’s been a fabulous day and one I’ll remember for a long time. As will my neck.

More Sandwich Terns