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Take a trip to Planet Gannet (aka Bempton Cliffs)
Last modified: 16 July 2012
In 2009, 23,000 gannets were counted at Bempton Cliffs.
With gannets galore on jaw-dropping cliffs that plunge 400 feet straight into the sea, now’s the time to get a taste of one of Britain’s best wildlife spectacles.
The gannet colony at RSPB Bempton Cliffs, between Bridlington and Filey, is at its peak between now and September – so staff and volunteers at the nature reserve have organised a series of events to bring visitors closer to these amazing seabirds.
Yorkshire’s gannets are the only ones to breed anywhere in England. In 2009 – the last time there was a full count of the colony – there were 23,000 at Bempton Cliffs and along the coast to Flamborough Head.
First up is Tea with Gannets, which takes in a guided tour of the reserve, followed by tea and cakes served in the marquee.
Glorious Gannet Evening Walks, accompanied by experts from Yorkshire Coast Nature, give a wonderful insight into the life and loves of the bird. A stroll along the cliffs in the fading light will make the perfect end to a day.
For younger visitors, the Greedy Gannet Club is a great way to spend a fun-filled hour or so in the company of Seabird Steve and his crew. Making gannet masks, creating gannet finger puppets, folding gannet paper darts and going on gannet walks are just some of the things they’ll be getting up to.
And for those with a passion – or just a passing interest – in photography, the Gannet Photography Workshops, led by Yorkshire Coast Photographer Steve Race, are a must-do. As well as offering those taking part the chance to capture incredible up-close images of gannets, Steve’s experience and expertise offers a real opportunity to improve your skills.
Ian Kendall, site manager, is excited about the programme of events. “These birds are truly amazing and the Planet Gannet events will introduce them to a lot more people, who we hope will grow to appreciate them as much as we do.”
Tea with Gannets run on Tuesdays and Saturdays from 24 July to 29 September. Cost: £6 or £3 for RSPB members. Booking essential on 01262 851179.
Glorious Gannet Evening Walks run on Mondays and Thursdays in August at 6.30pm. Cost: £2. Booking essential on 01262 851179.
The Greedy Gannet Club runs every Thursday in August from 10am. No charge for the activities.
RSPB/Yorkshire Coast Nature Gannet Photography Workshops run every Monday and Friday in August at 10am. Cost: £10. Booking essential on 01262 850959.
Full details can be found at www.rspb.org.uk/bemptoncliffs
How you can help
From scrub bashing to guided walks, the RSPB run events all around the UK
Find an event near you