Discover Animals’ Geoff Moore reports again from the tiny Channel Island of Alderney, which punches above its weight when it comes to wildlife.
As well as the famous blonde hedgehogs, there are the 4,000-5,000 Northern gannets that nest every year on the rocks of Les Etacs, just off the coast.
A reasonable quality of telescope or binoculars will give great views of the antics of this huge colony from the cliff tops of the island itself, or why not watch the live stream available online. But certainly the best experience is to contact the local Wildlife Trust who will take you on a boat trip to get closer to these fascinating birds.
Approaching the pointed rock outcrops of Les Etacs where literally every square foot on the steep sided islands are home to a nesting pair, the comings and goings of the birds are a wonder to watch. The noise, swooping and diving around you is such a great spectacle.
Geoff was lucky to join a boat carrying a French film crew as they gently made their way around the rock formations off the south west coast. Birds constantly circled around them and made their iconic 30-metre plunges deep into the surf for their food. They can get up to speeds of around 60mph when they strike the sea. Seabird ecologist Alex Purdie was on board to gave a great insight into the giant nest site itself and the birds in general.
Geoff highly recommends climbing aboard the Sula of Braye (the Alderney Wildlife Trust’s workboat) and spending a couple of memorable hours on the water.
Throughout much of the summer and from March to October every Wednesday and Saturday at 2pm, there are trips which can be booked through the Alderney Wildlife Trust Office in Victoria Street. Extra tours for groups of over six people can also be arranged. Current price: £30 adults, £22 child.
The amazing diversity of marine life along with strong tides plus the dramatic backdrop of Alderney’s coastline will give you a never-to-be-forgotten seabird tour.
The island has much general historical interest too. There is a significant Roman Fort on the island, plus it was fully occupied by the Germans during World War Two. All residents were evacuated from the island, leaving behind an amazing collection of fortifications and bunkers, many of which are still accessible today.
Contact the enthusiastic members of the Alderney Wildlife Trust for a whole range of animal and wildlife experience tours possible on the island: www.alderneywildlife.org
Geoff stayed at The Blonde Hedgehog (www.blondehedgehog.com) in the town of St Anne. His boat trip was booked through the Alderney Wildlife Trust: www.alderneywildlife.org/visit/walks-tours/boat-trips
RSPB Handbook of British Birds
£12.51
Discover Animals is a small team dedicated to bringing you the latest conservation and nature news. If you enjoy our content, please support our work with a donation from as little as £1.
