Who I've met this week

This week has seen some glorious spring weather here in Yorkshire. 

Thursday I had a trip to Bempton Cliffs - always a treat! After a workshop and manning my stall until about 5 I grabbed my camera and headed out to the cliffs. 

They're so awe-inspiring, and being eye-level with the Gannets is a truly special experience. 

 

 

Also on the cliffs were Razorbills and Guillemots

 

 

And a particularly beautiful Fulmar... 

 

 

RSPB Old Moor

Back in Barnsley I had an impromptu trip to Old Moor. I thought I'd be rewarded with some Goslings and I wasn't disappointed. There were Greylag Goslings and Canadian Goslings.

 

 

Another highlight was a close encounter with a Whitethroat. A Summer visitior who's about the size of a Great Tit, with beautiful eyes and a lovely warbley call. 

 

 

It turns out, Bitterns are like buses...

Now Old Moor is quite well known for being home to the elusive Bittern. I've visited many a time and haven't even heard it's boom let alone caught a glimpse of one. 

I joined two gentlemen in the Bittern hide overlooking the reeds and I managed to hear the tell-tale Booming call! What a treat! 

Then, TWO Bitterns flew across the water, being tailed by a Black-Headed Gull and I just about managed to point my camera in their general direction before grabbing some completely rubbish snaps as they disappeared into the reedbed. I still can't believe how lucky I was to be there! 

So I guess that means I can now finally sculpt a Bittern! :)