A Visit to Hermaness

My first visit to the incredible Hermaness reserve in July was nothing short of breath taking. The cliffs were alive with the bustling activity of seabirds, creating a mesmerising spectacle that was hard to pull my eyes away from. Everywhere I looked, there were fulmars, gannets, puffins, and more, all set against the dramatic backdrop of the rugged cliffs and the vast sea beyond.

Amongst all this avian activity, a particular moment stood out—a Great Skua, or Bonxie as it’s affectionately known in Shetland and by birders across the country, feeding on a rabbit atop the cliff. While the sight was quite gory, it was also a stark reminder of nature's raw beauty and the harsh realities of life in the wild. The Bonxie, with its impressive size and powerful presence, truly commands respect and admiration.

Visiting Hermaness was a fantastic experience, and witnessing these formidable birds up close added a thrilling edge to the day. It's a must-visit for any bird lover or nature enthusiast, offering a glimpse into the dynamic world of seabirds in their natural habitat. More adventures and stories to come as I continue to explore the wild beauty of Shetland!

Noss Gannets

 

Last month, I had the pleasure of taking a trip round Bressey and Noss on the Sea Birds and Seals boat with my wife, in-laws, and parents. It was the perfect outing for both avid birders and those less familiar with birdwatching. The experience was truly unforgettable, as our hosts provided us with an insightful journey through the Isles, sharing their extensive knowledge of the local wildlife.

During our trip, I managed to capture some stunning portraits of the Gannets in their natural habitat. These birds, with their striking white plumage and vibrant blue eyes, are a joy to photograph. The combination of the beautiful weather and the expert guidance from our hosts made it a fantastic experience for everyone on board.

Whether you're a seasoned birder or just looking for a unique adventure, I highly recommend this trip. It’s a fantastic way to appreciate the rich biodiversity of the Isles and learn more about these magnificent birds and their environment.

More to follow.

An Evening with a Long-eared Owl

One of the most memorable encounters I've had this year, in wildlife photography took place on the edge of a woodland in south Lincolnshire. As dusk settled, I was fortunate enough to spot a juvenile Long-eared Owl perched low, just off a woodland path. The owl, still reliant on its parents for food, showed no fear as it curiously observed its surroundings, providing a rare opportunity for close-up photography.

The fading light presented a significant challenge, making it difficult to capture sharp images. However, with a bit of patience and the use of a timer, I managed to photograph this beautiful bird in the near-darkness. The experience was nothing short of magical; observing the owl’s characteristic head bobs and sways as it prepared for a hunt was both educational and deeply rewarding.

Clock work Sanderlings

Last month, on our final day in Shetland, I found myself mesmerised by the lively Sanderlings on St Ninians's beach. 

As usual, I couldn’t resist taking far too many photos of these energetic little birds. Watching them dart around like wind-up toys, chasing the tideline, was a delight. I got down on my belly, letting them approach me naturally, capturing some intimate shots. It’s incredible to think that these tiny shorebirds were already on their journey back from their Arctic breeding grounds. The connection between the Arctic and Shetland, bridged by these amazing birds.

More stories and images from this trip will be coming soon.

Juvenile Long-eared Owl preview

Earlier this spring, I had the fantastic opportunity to observe a couple of pairs of Long-eared Owls once again breeding in South Lincolnshire. Among the highlights was finding a nest and following the journey of a juvenile owl. From its early days as a fluffy chick nestled in the safety of its nest, to its first flights around the woodland, it was a truly magical experience to witness. 

I'll be sharing more images and details from this unforgettable season soon—stay tuned on Just Wild Images!

Golden hour Puffin

Our Shetland adventure began on a perfect late July evening at Sumburgh Head, a location that quickly set the tone for our entire trip. The weather was exceptional, with calm seas and barely a breath of wind, all under the soft glow of the setting sun.

As we arrived, the Puffins made a tantalising appearance, teasing us with brief glimpses. But as the evening wore on, they grew bolder, and by 'golden hour,' we found ourselves just a few metres away from these captivating birds as they relaxed on the cliff top.

Tystie at Mousa Broch

 

If there’s one bird that truly encapsulates the rugged charm of Shetland’s coastline, it’s the Black Guillemot, affectionately known there as the Tystie. These striking birds, with their jet-black plumage accented by a bold white wing patch and vibrant red feet, are a common sight in Shetland, yet their presence is anything but ordinary.

It’s easy to overlook these charismatic seabirds when they are so plentiful across the islands, but taking a moment to watch them reveals the delightful quirks that make them special. One of my favourite experiences with Tysties is hearing their high-pitched, squeaky calls—a sound that perfectly matches their lively, almost playful character. These calls aren’t just random noises; they are a vital part of the social interactions among these birds, especially during the breeding season.

During a recent trip to Mousa, an uninhabited island renowned for its well-preserved Iron Age broch, I had the pleasure of observing Tysties in their natural habitat. The broch itself is a fascinating historical structure, towering above the landscape, but it’s the wildlife that really brings the site to life.

Standing on top of the broch, I watched as Tysties darted in and out of their nest hole, located in the ancient stonework. It was a magical scene—ancient history blending seamlessly with the natural world. The birds seemed entirely at home, landing on the broch’s upper stones as if they’d been doing so for centuries.

This experience was a gentle reminder not to take the everyday wonders of nature for granted. In a world where we’re constantly bombarded with the new and extraordinary, it’s easy to forget the simple pleasures of watching a common bird in its natural habitat. Yet, these moments of connection with wildlife are what make places like Shetland so special.

For anyone visiting the Shetland Islands, I highly recommend taking the time to watch the Tysties. Whether you’re standing on the windswept cliffs or exploring the ancient ruins, these birds add a layer of life and vibrancy to the landscape that is truly unforgettable.

As a wildlife photographer, it’s experiences like these that inspire me to keep exploring and capturing the beauty of the natural world. The Tysties of Mousa, with their charm and character, are just one example of the incredible wildlife that calls Shetland home.

So next time you’re in Shetland, take a moment to listen for the squeaky calls of the Tystie—you might just find yourself as captivated by these birds as I am.

Sumburgh Puffins

 

I love Shetland and a mid-summer family holiday was one of my best visits yet. These 'golden hour' Puffins were one of my highlights. More to follow.