Northern Holiday 2018, Post 4: Tysties at Portpatrick

I photographed the above sign at the Mull of Galloway lighthouse on a previous visit, but can't resist re-posting it as Tysties are among our favourite 'Scottish' birds. The term 'Tystie' apparently dates from the late 18th century, though its nordic origins go way back: it pretty much rhymes with 'feisty'.

We had been told that Portpatrick, on the east coast of the Rhins peninsula, was a traditional fishing cove, so we were eager to go and investigate. What a beautiful spot ... and with four Tysties in the harbour, splashing about in the evening sunshine.

I hope the photos below make you smile: we love to watch these charismatic seabirds!

We were just leaving the harbour to catch the sunset round the corner when we saw all four birds together: what a lovely sight!

It was a cool evening, but the sunset heralded yet another remarkably sunny day.

Great Cumbrae ~ Crocodile Rock

I love visiting Scottish islands, and Great Cumbrae was a new one for me to explore. I had read about the 'local wildlife' in the form of this crocodile, but was not quite prepared for his size and gaping jaw! The rock apparently morphed into this iconic reptile during Victorian days.

Great Cumbrae is only a short CalMac ferry ride from Wemyss Bay on the mainland. We arrived at the ferry terminal, having just missed the boat - as you can see. Fortunately the next sailing was only 30 minutes later, which gave us a chance to finish our takeaway coffees before embarking on the ten minute crossing. 

We had a glorious day on Great Cumbrae. I spotted a couple of Tysties (or Black Guillemots), birds of the auk family that we rarely see. I'm not quite sure what the one in the photo below had found to eat! The favoured Scottish name of 'tystie' is Norse in origin.

In breeding plumage

Tysties are easily identified by their flame coloured feet ... when they dive, that is!

You can see the red sandstone and the stark beauty of this peaceful island.

It proved to be a haven for birds, and the curlew's call in the wind was, as ever, an irresistible and compelling sound.

We had a splendid tea in Millport, the island's town. I can recommend the tiffin and the Mars Bar cake ... and am glad to report that we failed to see (or feel) any of the wee beasties on the cafe sign!