Nearly the end

It's arrived at that time of the year again when all our breeding seabirds leave the Farne Islands. In a way I don't really like it and if it was up to me they would stay here all year long, but I know that's never going to happen. I suppose that's what makes the Farnes such a special place visit.

I know I get to see it day after day but you can never get bored of it and it always produces something different every year.

Don't worry there is still time to see some Puffins, Razorbills, Kittiwakes and Shags but our Guillemots are nearly all gone now but for a handful left. We still have those inquisitive grey seals and of course we have our wintering birds starting to arrive now so it's not all doom and gloom.

I like this time of the year as you never know what you might see. Whether it's a Great Skua passing through or the Minkie Whales starting to arrive, the Farnes always keeps you on your toes and there's never a dull moment.

The Rangers have done all their counts for the year but we will have to wait until everything is totalled up before I can let you know how the breeding season has faired. Fingers crossed the seabirds did okay.

It's also that time of the year when some of the Rangers who are on short term contracts leave for pastures new and hopefully we will see them again next year. That's if they decide to come back and I know some of them would love to so fingers crossed they do.

Its been a big change around the Farnes this year and the guys have done a great job so they should be proud of themselves but this does not mean the season is over by any means. We still have the seals pups to arrive and fingers crossed we get some rare birds dropping in.

Here is a few pictures of how the islands look now and hopefully the Puffins hang around for a few more weeks so people can enjoy them.

 

The cliff tops are getting bare now.

 

Young Kittiwakes are taking their first flights

The Lonstone Island covered in seals.

Our guests enjoying the Sunset Cruises

 

Beautiful Sunset beside Bamburgh Castle

Angel of the North.

 

Arctic Terns getting ready for their long journey

Young Arctic Terns going up really quick now

 

 

This Puffin still had some nesting material

 

 

Fulmars enjoy the little bit of sun we have had this year. They will still be here for a little while yet.

 

 

Lots of Lions Mane jellyfish around.

 

It will not be long before these little fella's will be arriving.

 

I will keep you all updated as to when all the seabirds are gone.