Dolphin-fest

Another fantastic Seabird and Whale trip guiding for Yorkshire Coast Nature. After a decidely sketchy swell forecast earlier in the week, things had calmed down and we sailed from Staithes at 6.30am on glassy seas, under blue skies and in beautiful early morning light. We headed out to about five miles but besides a Manx Shearwater heading north, we failed to find much of interest. We got a call to say some Bottlenose Dolphins were moving north up the coast, so we headed over to Saltburn to see if we could find them. After some lovely coffee and cake, the dolphins approached from the south and soon surrounded the boat. With flat calm conditions, a stationary boat drifting with the tide and dolphins close enough to touch it really was a spectacular moment, a breathtaking wildlife encounter. I then realised I hadn't put a card in my camera, but not to worry, that's what smartphones are for!

 

Half the group came for a walk along the clifftop in the early afternoon heat. We found Pyramidal and Common Spotted Orchids, Zigzag Clover and Narrow-bordered 5-spot Burnet Moths.