Fulmars At Runswick Bay: Tubular Bills…
Paired on high cliffs above the curve of Runswick Bay
Fulmars nested in crevices and on grassy ledges,
Posing watchfully. Related to albatrosses, each one’s tubular bill
Seemed poised, ready to emit a foul smelling oil in any affray
With intruders and their sharp eyes peered from dark edges
As if made up with kohl, like an ancient Egyptian deity.
An aura of regal calm emanated from them, an iron will,
Even an air of aloofness, whilst exuding a calm serenity…
Pete Ray
18th April 2024…
Not gulls, these petrels have weak legs and spend most of their time out at sea, feeding on fish, crustaceans and carrion.
The spat out oil deters intruders and apparently has a dreadful odour.
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