Let me know when that tide's coming in won't you

Let me know when that tide's coming in won't you

Tuesday 26 July 2016

Roseate Tern - Coquet Island

As I mentioned in my previous post, the Roseate Tern was a pretty certain life tick at Coquet, and so it proved. Unfortunately, it wasn't the best day for light and it with the boat moving up and down so much with the swell, it proved quite difficult to get any really good shots, but I was quite happy with what I did get. It at least leaves something to improve upon, as I intend to go back next year.
In summer, the adults underparts have a very nice pink tinge to them.This is where they get their name. That unfortunately is not clearly visible in any of my shots.

It can be seen slightly, if you look very closely at this first one. The two birds in the picture are both Roseate Terns. The bird on the right has a slightly more visible pinkish tinge to it's front. It's certainly not bright white.


Here in flight it is even less visible, but what stunning birds. So sad that there were only around 90 pairs (representing 90% of the UK's nesting population) on Coquet. Fingers crossed they had a productive breeding season.




5 comments:

  1. It has a majestic elegance when in flight.

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  2. Majestic Elegance...what perfect words to describe this beautiful bird. When in flight, he looks as if he cannot be stopped. The red feet/claws (I am not sure what you are supposed to call them because I am not a birder...just a lover of birds) catch the eye immediately. I so hope they have had a superior breeding season and that there will be many more pairs to come. My eyes are weakening, but I looked until I saw that beautiful little touch of pink. So pretty. genie

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  3. Adam, birds in flight are difficult to catch with the camera. You did a marvelous job. I managed once to get a fairly decent shot at the beach, but since that time my attempts failed. lol Thanks for sharing and linking up with me today. Have a fototastic week!

    National D-Day Memorial Part 2

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  4. Wow, they are very elegant! Hopefully yes there will be many more for people to enjoy. Great captures!

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  5. I've only seen this tern once. You had some great views. Hopefully this tern will turn things around. Their populations have been in decline all of their range. That's a truly sad thing!

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