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.
More Razorbills
Goth Puffins The Goth Puffin lookalikes were out in force in Lyme Bay. I do love a good Razorbill flypast, but is… read more
Razorbill It's normally Puffins I see over the west Westray waves. This time a Razorbill is coming fast and low over… read more
Fishing I love chugging out of Brixham on board the Kelly's Hero. Brixham is still an active port, and it's a… read more
Razorbill flypast I've spent all day taking photographs of Razorbills. It's been lovely to spend the day on the cliffs in the… read more
Razorbill in spray When I visit one of my favourite places on Westray I'm usually frustrated that the sun and wind are coming… read more
Finding a Cooter-neb The Razorbills along the Westray coast make a spectacular sight. Their dramatic Emo-Puffin plumage is glorious against the dark rocks.… read more
Razorbill I'm used to seeing resplendent Razorbills in full breeding plumage on Westray. I've even photographed them bringing back fish to… read more
Razorbill – with fish! I've seen hundreds of Puffins with beak-fulls of fish recently, but it's still a rarity to watch a Razorbill fly… read more