The aerial master with the big nostrils

One of my main photographic targets at Bempton Cliffs RSPB reserve this year was the Fulmar (Fulmarus glacialis). These birds look a little like gulls but are actually related to the albatrosses. Fulmars are unique in that they have very distinct nasal passages at the top of their bill, which are clearly seen on the images below. They are also able produce a stomach oil, which they are able to excrete from their nose, which is used as a repellant against predators as well as an energy rich food source for chicks and for the adults during their long flights.

These really are fascinating birds and I could spend a day simply watching their masterful flight. They fly low over the sea on stiff wings, with shallow wingbeats, gliding and banking, and at their breeding sites like Bempton RSPB, fly high up the cliff face, riding the updraughts.

1/1600s, f5.6, ISO200 @ 420mm, -0.3 exposure bias

1/1000s, f5.6, ISO200 @ 300mm, -1.0 exposure bias

At times these birds fly past you on the clifftop at eye level and at touching distance away. It really is a spectacular sight and one I always find frustratingly difficult to photograph and I think thats because its always difficult to judge the speed these birds are flying at. Below is my favourite close encounter image from the recent session.

1/2500s, f5.6, ISO200 @ 420mm