After visiting the Farne Islands some years ago. We promised ourselves a visit to Skomer in spring to catch the sea birds nesting  and in particular the Puffins.

The first thing to say is that the Islands are very different in character to the Farne islands. The Farne’s being fairly low and rocky whilst Skomer is high and covered in grass. In fact people have lived and farmed there since the iron age. Plus it’s only a short boat trip across Jacks Sound. The Island is famous for supporting the largest breeding population of Manx Shearwaters over 300,00 pairs, as well as over 10,000 breeding Puffins.

Skomer Island

The day started in torrential rain but by the time we caught the boat the weather had improved and we were treated to some great views of all the main breeding species. Although sadly only the bodies of the Manx Shearwaters as the gulls seem to have a field day when the Shearwaters leave and return after their night out to sea.

Getting close enough to photograph the Puffins was very easy, as at certain parts of the Island they are literary at your feet. This years winter storms had delayed the breeding so with no chicks to feed there was little chance of seeing adults bring in sand eels. The cliff nesting species however are a much greater challenge than on the Farne Islands as the cliffs are on average 200 ft  with the bird colonies on the ledges well down the cliff faces.

After spending six hours on  the island we returned to the main land and got a another soaking just before reaching the car park. Eager for another visit, although on reflection I think the Farne Island offer greater opportunities for the photographer, perhaps next year, with another visit to the Farne Islands and a stop at Yorkshires Bempton Cliffs.