There and Back

Today a trip to Skomer! We boarded the 11am ferry with 15 or so other passengers for our short 10 min crossing, the sea being really calm. On the approach to Skoma we saw Puffin in large numbers flying around, or just swimming in groups on water. After a short talk by the Wardens, we were off to see what we could see toward the center of the island, photographing the trigpoint on the way and walked toward The Wick. This was the area that we saw the most puffins in their burrows – brilliant. While strolling along this area we also saw choughs flying around. We stopped and had our picnic lunch and continued before deciding to head back through the centre toward the old 19th century farm buildings and the landing stage in hope more puffin pictures Saw some on the water only, but great walk anyway. The boat very crowded on way back but it was only a short journey. All in all, a great trip and well worth doing. Trig point on Skomer marking its height above sea level at

A visit to the Farne Islands is always an adventure, and no less for us! We were really looking forward to see the wildlife that so many people enthuse about. Seahouses was the name of the port that we sailed from and the picture below shows the peaceful harbour (thank goodness!) that we sailed from.  After a brief journey, a welcome talk on the landing, we were set to see what we could see! Below are some images of the species I manage to photograph. Starting, of course with the beloved Puffin. A small auk, the Puffin is familiar as the 'clown' of the coast with its brightly coloured bill, bumpy landings and waddling walk. Puffins live in burrows in the short grass at the top of cliffs. They feed on fish, such as sandeels, which they catch by diving beneath the surface and using their wings to swim. For most of the year, Puffins are out at sea, returning to land to breed. During the breeding season, displays of bill-knocking and ritualised walki