A zillion thanks to Dave Mansell for allowing me to use his stunning shots to illustrate why you should never dawdle if a storm blown Little Auk or two turns up near you.
Dave took these incredible pictures in Scarborough harbour on the east coast last week when large numbers of the tiny cuties were passing.
One minute everybody's favourite auk, the next...gull muesli...
Thanks again for the use of the pics Dave, if only we got Little Auks regularly on this side...then again, if this is what happens to 'em, perhaps it is as well we are spared.
You can contact Dave at mansell_dave@hotmail.com
Eyes to the skies everyone, eyes to the skies.......
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The adult gull killed the auk and left it. The juvenile gull promptly ate it as his Laridae Lunch!
The other auk managed to get away.
Thanks Gordon.
I wonder what Little Auk tastes like? Probably similar to an oily prawn cocktail crisp I guess.....
Anyway some upcoming events I forgot to mention earlier:
First from Martin Mere:
In a truly unique wildlife spectacle, WWT Martin Mere is offering you the opportunity to come along to Centre to watch our wild swans in the moonlight.
The wild swans by floodlight events will take place every Tuesday night from 14th November to Tuesday 19th December. The Martin Mere Wetland Centre currently has over 500 Whooper Swans on the Mere and the numbers will gradually rise throughout winter to 2000, making this event a once in a lifetime opportunity to see huge numbers of wild swans in their natural habitat.
You will see beautiful wild swans and ducks at close quarters from the comfort of a heated observatory whilst the wardens provide a fascinating live commentary and answer any questions you may have.
This event is ideal for families and groups and starts promptly at 6.30pm until 8pm. Booking is essential for this event and it costs ã6 adult, ã4.80 concession, ã3.80 children and ã15.55 families. Call 01704 891220 to book onto any of the Tuesday nights.
WWT Martin Mere is open every day from 9.30am to 5.00pm and parking is free of charge. Situated off the A59, it is signposted from the M61, M58 and M6. The Centre is also accessible via the Southport to Manchester and the Liverpool to Preston line by train from Burscough Rail Stations.
And another from the RSPB at Marshside:
Ever wondered why we so seldom see the sea in at Southport?
RSPB warden, Graham Clarkson and Dr. Alan Bedford from Edge Hill University will be answering this and many more mysteries of the Ribble estuary in this entertaining illustrated talk. Discover the creatures that live hidden in the mud and the animals that feed on them.
RSPB ArenâÂÂt birds brilliant project officer, Danny Hawker-Bond said âÂÂThe Ribble estuary is a fascinating place full of amazing wildlife. If youâÂÂve ever driven along marine Drive and been intrigued by the vast and stunning coastline, this talk is for you!âÂ?
The talk will be held at Stanley High School, Fleetwood Road on the 15th November from 7.30pm. It is a must for anyone with an interest in nature. Call 01253 796 292 to book your free place.