To The Smalls and Grassholm

Last night 2 RIBs left to venture out to waters around The Smalls and Grassholm, via Skomer and Skokholm to pick up staff, volunteers etc - The reason, to enjoy Jerry's company before his promotion from Skokholm Warden to albatross study in the Falklands Islands..

Out at the The Smalls, a few of the large gull species present, the commonest bird though were roosting Kittiwakes, presumably non-breeders, though have they attempted to nest on those ledges in the past....?

Storm Petrels seen from both boats, I guess the same 2 birds, all other expected breeding seabird species seen in numbers. Small schools of Common Dolphins kept appearing, and porpoises seen close to Grassholm.

Below the view of nesting Gannets from the SW of Grassholm, not the sight from the mainland or islands.

We also picked out  a couple of bridled Guillemots on a ledge and 2 Whimbrel roosting on Grassholm. 1 Whimbrel was seen taking off  from near the Mewstone, as Skomer was passed too.
A great evening out !
Thanks to Chris, Jerry and those who made the trip possible, and good luck Jerry being stuck on an island in The Falklands for 18 months ....!!
Skokholm perhaps isn't that difficult to get off after all ...??