Gunver Head and Stepper Point, St Merryn, Cornwall

The intention was to start early and go for a walk around Gunver Head and Stepper Point. A slight over indulgence of red wine the night before meant that we had a slightly later start than intended and arrived just after 9 am. We parked in the lay-by mid way between Crugmeer and Lellizzick and headed along the permissive path to Gunver Head. It was a dull and overcast start, but as we headed west along the path a couple of Barn Swallows drifted past. As we approached the cliff three Northern Wheatears flicked up and sat on a nearby fence, a good start, which built my anticipation for the rest of the walk.

Male Stonechat

Stonechat taking flight

Stonechat in flight

We worked our way around the cliff path, Spring Squill covered the cliff top giving it a subtle blue haze, and the sweet smell of Gorse filled the air. Herring Gulls, Shags, Fulmars and a pair of Oystercatchers had taken up the best nesting sites on the cliff. Linnets, Skylarks, Meadow Pipits and several pairs of Stonechats were present in the gorse, and seemingly already on territory. 

Skylark

Skylark

A very approachable Raven provided me with an interesting diversion. It allowed me to get within two metres of it, I have never got this close to a Raven before. This unusual behaviour made me question the bird’s health as they are generally such shy birds, hopefully it was just used to people.

Raven

Other than the occasional passing Swallow there was little evidence of spring migration and it was only as we approached the car that I picked up our first Whitethroat and Chiffchaff.