Dropping in for a bath
I’m crouching down on shattered bare rocks in the desolate far north of Westray trying to get a photograph of a Ringed Plover. I got some lovely shots last time I was here:
I watch it for ten minutes as it goes through the most comprehensive wash and brush up possible. It’s a thrill to be so close and yet unobserved by such an observant bird.
When it takes off, it soars, stares directly down at me, and then drifts away.
That was magical.
More Arctic Skuas
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A Scootie Allan attacking a Mallimack A Scootie Allan attacking a Mallimack. An Arctic Skua attacking a Fulmar. A Stercorarius parasiticus attacking a Fulmarus glacialis. Dramatic, isn't… read more
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Puffins chased by Arctic Skuas A Puffin's dinner is an Arctic Skua's dinner. Arctic Skuas are hunting Puffins for their fish on Westray and they're… read more
One Arctic Skua evening Arctic Skuas are one of my favourite birds. Their swept-back wings, hooked beaks and pointed tail feathers make a distinctive… read more
Juvenile Arctic Skua There's a juvenile Arctic Skua overhead. I'm getting amazing views. It's not from this year because it has very different… read more
Arctic Skua attacking a Kittiwake I've seen Great Skuas attacking juvenile Kittiwakes on Westray. They pluck them out of the air and peck them to… read more