Getting close

Getting close to any wild bird is a privilege. It’s a wonderful feeling to be able to see how wild birds act and see their plumage in detail without alarming them or changing their behaviour in any way.

This Razorbill was sitting on low rocks on the west coast of Westray when I saw it and decided to clamber down the cliffs to spend time with it. I sat on a rock ledge, just above the waves and enjoyed its company as it preened and flapped and dozed.

It’s fascinating to see the ruched-effect of its iris and the deep grooves in its bill. The older they get, the greater the number of grooved lines they have on their bills. It’s something I can identify with.