Feather Fascination.

       Around 8,000 pairs of gannets return every year to RSPB Bempton near Flamborough on the East Coast.Gannets mate for life.They are renowned for their faithfulness,usually returning to the same nesting site with the same partner.

     I was thrilled to see this young gannet with its feather present ready to take to its intended.Young gannets are often seen presenting each other with flowers and feathers.

     For a few moments i watched as it ruffled up its own feathers carefully still clutching the present.Obviously this gannet wanted to look its best on presenting the gift.

                      Another gannet sneaks behind to watch the action.

         Not wanting to waste any more time it flies off to present its gift.

      We returned the next day to the same spot on the cliffs.The weather conditions had changed dramatically.I found it difficult to hold my camera against the wind.However the gannets were enjoying a spot of formation flying.

       Whenever it got very gusty they simply put up their tail feathers.What a brilliant rudder.