Standing on the windswept cliffs on the rugged coastline of northwestern Ireland, I gaze out over the open water, scanning the horizon for signs of life. Standing on Kilcummin Head, called Benwee Head also, I watch long chains of shearwaters skimmed the surface of the ocean, riding the wind effortlessly. Among the species present, the Manx Shearwater (Puffinus puffinus) is one of the most common. Another species that frequently joins the migration through this region is the Sooty Shearwater (Ardenna grisea), known for its incredible long-distance journeys. The Sooty Shearwater breeds in the Southern Hemisphere, from places like New Zealand and the Falkland Islands, and migrates northwards in a massive global loop, passing Ireland in large numbers during the northern autumn. Occasionally, the Great Shearwater (Ardenna gravis) also makes an appearance. With a more robust build and a striking pattern of dark and light on its wings, Great Shearwater completes one of the longest migrations of any bird, traveling from its breeding grounds in the South Atlantic to the North Atlantic for the northern summer.
As the sun begin to dip lower, a pair of Red-breasted Mergansers (Mergus serrator) appears, fighting against the strong north-western winds still with grace. Their slender bodies and spiky crests silhouette against the sky, they move in perfect unison, navigating the coastal landscape on their long journey south. As they pass by the rocky cliffs, their distinctive plumage is evident. The male, with his dark green head, striking red eyes, and white collar, is particularly eye-catching during the breeding season, while the female’s more subdued gray body and rusty-brown head blend seamlessly into the environment. Despite the difference in appearance, both share a sharp, thin bill with saw-like edges, which aids in catching slippery fish underwater.
Red-breasted Mergansers belong to the family Anatidae and are known for their streamlined bodies and specialized bills, which are serrated to help them catch fish. Red-breasted Mergansers are diving duck species, often found along coastal waters during migration, as well as in freshwater lakes and rivers during the breeding season. These birds are highly migratory, traveling from their northern breeding grounds in North America and Eurasia to more temperate waters in the winter.
During migration, Red-breasted Mergansers often follow coastal routes, using the natural features of the land to guide them on their long flights. The birds are highly adaptable, capable of diving to impressive depths to hunt for fish and crustaceans, making them efficient predators in both freshwater and marine environments.
In order to meet the growing demand for top images of the rarer species of Palaearctic Bird-lens.com has specifically made trips to remote places. Additionally every chance is used, if a rare bird is around the homeground. This to do everything to ensure excellent photos of the Birds of the Western Palearctic. The yield of pictures also of rare Western Palaearctic birds is very good. There are other nice images of birds, that you will find behind the tab “Picture Shop“. Just give a notice if you need a picture of a bird which is not online.