Fab Feb!

Looking from Inner Farne to West Wideopens

Pinnacles looking clean..too clean!

Clifftops bare and empty

Chapel locked down but looking good

Singing Twite was a surprise!

Seals present in good numbers

Thursday 28th February comments: As day's go, it was stunning. It's not often late February produces a day of sunshine and calm seas, but yesterday was impressive. We could not have asked for anymore as we visited the islands for various work reasons and for a general check of the islands health.

Seabirds were few and far between although by late afternoon, Guillemots were rafting and a few Shags had descended onto the cliffs. A small group of Eider ducks were seen displaying around Inner Farne whilst Rock Pipits were singing in territory - spring may have sprung?

As expected, two Peregrines were seen (these birds over-winter on the Farnes) whilst a scattering of Blackbirds, Song Thrushes, Wrens and Robins were present. The most noticeable bird was a male Twite, seen and heard singing on Inner Farne - a very welcome addition to a crisp warm late February day. On the water, a few Long-tailed Ducks and Goldeneye indicate that winter isn't over just yet. Elsewhere Grey Seals were present in good numbers on their haul out sites but slowly and surely the Farnes is coming alive and in three weeks time, the rangers will return, then the fun will really begin!