Tag: wildlife

Since the 1st of May, 2023, I decided I was going to capture images for a daily visit down Whaligoe Steps over a whole year. That’s the equivalent of around 365 visits or more. Thus far, I’m still on target to reach this ambitious goal.

There have been two previous blog entries which showcase some highlighted photographic moments which you can visit by clicking on these two links: New Challenge (Part 1) – Whaligoe Eye and New Challenge (Part 2) – Whaligoe Eye

This next blog entry reveals some highlights selected for May 29th, 2023 and every consecutive day until June 11th, 2023… Nature in all of it’s proverbial glory, rain or shine!

May 29th, 2023: Sunny morning stroll down Whaligoe Steps, met a lovely Canadian couple who made a new friend of Star (the resident cat). During my relaxing expedition I saw a glimpse of a grey seal, in and among soaking up the ambience.

May 30th, 2023: Seabirds were active during this Tuesday morning. The photo above shows a triple dose of male eider ducks mingling with a shag and a great black-backed gull. As I captured the moment of social interaction, behind me was an angle of the shallow cave from a lower location than is usually observed. The pebble shores in this instance are submerged beneath the surface of the North Sea.

May 31st, 2023: Rock pipit on one of the remaining walls still standing for the old salt house on the Bink. I thought I’d share the other photo as it has a puffin hanging out with guillemots as they all go swimming. There’s a wee colony of puffins not far from Whaligoe Steps, and occasionally one is sighted within this inlet.

June 1st, 2023: Above are photos of some striking thrift which is abundant at the moment, plus on this particular trek down Whaligoe Steps, a sighting of two boats passing each other on the North Sea. Due to the calmer waters at this time of year, I’ve observed a lot more traffic using this picturesque stretch of sea.

June 2nd, 2023: Charlie Juhlenski, the Stonemason who worked on the restoration of the first three flights of Whaligoe Steps in recent years, has set up a touching tribute to his Mother Etta. This can be found located at the top of Whaligoe Steps. Next to the plaque is an authentic example of Caithness slab stone which has scribed in yellow chalk – “In 1792, the Steps were built. 230 years old”.

June 3rd, 2023: Razorbill dancing in the North Sea, while a little later during some birdwatching I noticed an oystercatcher exploring some rock.

June 4th, 2023: A dandelion attracts some curious flies, oblivious to the crowd of guillemots which hustle and bustle along some coastal rock at Whaligoe Steps.

June 5th, 2023: The sea during my trek on Monday was so clear and so still, it was beautiful. In my other photo, a close up of mayweed doing an impression of the Three Tenors.

June 6th, 2023: Abundant Cow parsley crowds some thrift. Fulmars (Fulmarus glacialis) enjoying moments of sun, I bet they have quite a view too!

June 7th, 2023: A ‘Cirrocumulus’ cloud formation greeted me on my trek providing quite a beautiful sky. Visibility of Beatrice offshore wind farm was good for a few days, and I took a photo of a seabird between wind turbines. There are eighty-four wind turbines which are just over eight miles from the Caithness coastline. It became operational back in 2019.

June 8th, 2023: Don’t tell anyone, but I have a wishlist of natural wonders I would love to catch in a photograph. Since beginning this challenge, I’ve already exceeded expectations with a photo of a local deer, an otter and now resident bunnies!

Before I fully descended Whaligoe Steps on this particular morning, my periphery was drawn to a white splodge which caught the bright sunshine. It became apparent that this was no seagull, but a rabbit going about it’s business! I believe it’s being sociable with a jackdaw whilst the other photo showcases a more predictable rabbit image which was situated further along the top of the cliff edge.

June 9th, 2023: There used to be more than one boat winch at the base of Whaligoe Steps, but if you visit at the time of this blog entry you’ll only see one. Birdwatching and identifying has taken me on quite a learning journey which I’m thankful for. The photo above is of a pied wagtail.

June 10th, 2023: Black headed gull flies in the beautiful azure skies, while on the ground a razorbill ponders over the magic of sunbathing.

June 11th, 2023: Some beautiful wildflowers to finish this blog entry. During my Sunday afternoon trek, I observed pink campion being radiant despite overcast skies. Meanwhile, a wild rose graces the verge of the zig-zagging Whaligoe Steps…

Keeping my fingers crossed, I hope to be sharing another fortnight with you at some point as I continue my challenge to capture images of nature and events here at Whaligoe Steps each day for a whole year.

Thank you again to those who stop and talk to me, it’s always appreciated and enjoyable.

I’ll keep updating the ‘Postcards’ section as and when I get photographs of visitors. Thank you to those who are happy to share in the moment, it’s appreciated and really communicates a memory.

Until next time, take care and safe travels…

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( Summer is getting closer, photograph of the garden during the afternoon of June 11th, 2023…)

So far, so good. In my last blog entry I divulged my hopes to make a trek down Whaligoe Steps at least once every day for 365 days. To capture this momentous series of visits I was planning to take photographs of my adventures, and so it continues.

This is another blog entry showcasing some highlights from the past fortnight. Sit back and browse some newly photographed wildlife around Whaligoe Steps to be included on this website, plus some of the usual neighbours and some delightful ambience. Two photos for each day from May 15th to May 28th inclusively.

May 15th, 2023: Below are examples of the wildlife you may spot on a trek down Whaligoe Steps. A wren sings to the backdrop of a radiant sunrise, while the other other photograph showcases a first for this website, at the top of the Steps a roe deer ponders the morning.

May 16th, 2023: A shag (gulosus aristotelis) gives their wings a little stretch and on this particular visit I also noted how clear the North Sea was. The broken anchor submerged adds some nautical presence.

May 17th, 2023: Time for some vibrant colour and a contribution of flora thanks to the beautiful bluebell and marsh buttercup. During this fortnight, both flowers were prominent.

May 18th, 2023: There is a pebble shoreline at the base of the Whaligoe Steps which is divided into three sections. The furthest section has a shallow cave (pictured below), and the other photograph captures Star in full prowling mode.

May 19th, 2023: There’s a healthy quantity of seabirds to spot around the coastline here, and on day 19, I have these two photographs to share. A couple of black guillemot relax beside a calm North Sea, and trying to conceal their location behind vegetation is an attentive gull.

May 20th, 2023: A striking narcissus insists on being photographed in front of a bank of bluebells. In the other photograph, a typical example of the metalwork which is located at points within the local landscape. It was used for nautical purposes, especially during the ‘herring fisheries’ of the late 1700s onwards.

May 21st, 2023: A male eider duck taking a waddle along a grassy pathway along the top of Whaligoe Steps, whilst a little later during this particular morning trek, light filters through the prominent cloud to add textures to the surface of the sea.

May 22nd, 2023: On two trips down Whaligoe Steps on this specific day, different atmospheres were evident. In the afternoon a seagull swoops down only to get a surprise when a grey seal head breaks the surface of the sea! During my morning visit, I photographed a pied wagtail skipping along on the Bink.

May 23rd, 2023: Again I have examples of an afternoon and a morning in a day at Whaligoe Steps. Firstly, during an afternoon gazing at the movement in the North Sea not too far from the salt house, I caught a glimpse of an otter for the first time down here! Secondly, during a morning exploration beneath a soft sunrise, a pigeon of all things hops from one bit of coastal rock to the next.

May 24th, 2023: There are six flights of stone steps which make up the Whaligoe Steps. Here’s a taster of the first proper flight as you descend the cliff face. Once you have negotiated the six flights (at the time of these blog entries three have been expertly renovated and repaired by Charlie who is shown in previous blogs, while the remaining three are to be approached with vigilance due to their worsening state), there is a platform known as the Bink where you’ll find the remains of a salt house…

May 25th, 2023: Rock pipit unaware I was on a shelf of coastal rock above it, so fortunate to get that photo. Some ambience captured during a really bright sunrise…

May 26th, 2023: During these first 28 days of visiting the Whaligoe Steps, I’ve been privileged to share my journeys with the song of a friendly and enchanting wren on several mornings. In the second photograph below, a female eider duck swims eagerly through a shimmering sea confronted by a sunny glow.

May 27th, 2023: I believe this is a cabbage white butterfly clinging in the sea breeze to a dandelion. The other photograph below is a spectacle I’m enjoying as it unfolds, a couple of adult shags nurturing three babies. They give a distinct squeak at random intervals and at this stage are fluffy and gaining confidence of the wider world in the safety of their nest.

May 28th, 2023: During an afternoon visit, took a photograph of the sixth flight of Whaligoe Steps which takes you to the Bink (grass platform). You’ll notice the salt house which is situated behind. The other photo was a delight, as a grey seal relaxed on a section of coastal rock known as the Shoal o’ the head.

Thank you to those who have shared their well wishes for this adventure and challenge, it’s very much appreciated. To date, since May 1st, I’ve already been thrilled to get a photo of a roe deer, an otter, a good photograph of a rock pipit and a pied wagtail, plus the recent grey seal viewing. I’m keeping my fingers crossed that the local nature continues to share some wonderful moments.

Look out for the next entry in this ongoing observation of life around Whaligoe Steps, as I hope to continue capturing images of my daily visits.

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Did you hear my teeth chattering and feel a wee tremble as the cold wrestled with the tips of my fingers? Well, this cold time of year has now faded away to unveil Easter celebrations and splashes of Spring, but here at Whaligoe Steps there’s been plenty going on since my last blog entry.

Join me if you will, to witness some beautiful Winter-themed photography of this picturesque area from several days in December ’22 and March ’23…

Living beside the North Sea means the winds bite with a bitter temperature, and most often tend to be the reason for lack of snow. Whilst watching/listening to the weather forecast, they speak of more inland areas receiving generous snowfall, but here on the coastline it’s a little less commonplace.

The photos above hopefully share an ambience and an idea of how this area looks when the snow does actually drop by and hang around for a day or two.

There’s a region where a landfall tucks itself away in a corner once you reach the base of Whaligoe Steps, which during these colder experiences showcases stunning icicles. I’ve included two photographs of this for your perusal.

One of the images above is a new ‘toy’ which arrived during the Festive period. A glass orb which creates some interesting photographs like an arty lens. Here are a couple more which I like, but I’m still experimenting with the globe.

I won’t bore you with events and activities which have been taking place over the past few months, but I will share with you that I’ve been collecting old postcards with connections to this rustic and ever-changing coastline. In fact, at the time of this blog it’s Easter weekend, so here’s an example of an old postcard which showcases celebrations of Easter back in 1914. If you’re pondering over the journey this specific postcard took I can tell you that it was sent from the U.S.A. to England back in the day.

Let’s not get caught up too much in that detour, as a blog will be forthcoming about old postcards.

It is April, 2023… This means the season of sunrise and daffodils is upon us. Here are some photographs embracing these enchanting sights.

The residential car park here at Whaligoe Steps has been getting busier since April 1st, and there are evidently more visitors during the ‘quiet time’ of the year (November – February) when temperatures have dropped and folk are recovering from the turning of a new year and Christmas festivities. The reputation of this area continues to reach more and more curious minds.

Remember, if you encounter the congestion or any frustrations regarding lack of facilities, infrastructure-related issues, that the Highland Council have announced they’re investing a tourist-based funding of £90,000 at some point over the next five years. This will definitely benefit visitors and residents alike.

(Residential car park at Whaligoe Steps, April 8th, 2023…)

On November 11th, 2022, I took these photographs of a Highland Council approved sign which can be seen here on the verge of the residential car parking facilities.

Naturally, when it gets very busy here this sign doesn’t seem to mean a lot. Nevertheless, it is a presence and possible indicator of Highland Council intentions to do what they can with the budgets they have. Keeping fingers and toes crossed.

As the season of activity and visitors has arrived in full flow, I’ll be active on this website more and of course there are social media updates going on too. Many extra photographs end up via social media platforms if you’re interested, but time is always against us. No pressure.

Take care, be safe and know I’m sending you positive wishes for a rewarding and precious day/night.

Thank you for being You.

Greylag goose (Anser anser) sighted on a loch nearby, April 7th, 2023…

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History research continues in the background, two blog entries are being tweaked as I type this out. Life continues at a pace and so as a consequence, I’m sharing this general overview of updates with you. I sincerely hope that this October entry finds you winning in all of the challenges you find yourselves in, as the world continues to rock and roll. Before I dive in with photographs and words, just wanting to send you all positive wishes and thoughts.

On March 4th, 2021, the Highland Council announced a necessary investment in tourism for the Highland region £1.5m tourism investment gets the green light in Highland’s budget proposals for Recovery, Health and Prosperity | The Highland Council

On August 25th, 2022, the Highland Council made the promising announcement of their ambitious investment for tourism infrastructure Ambitious Tourism Infrastructure Development Plan approved | The Highland Council

Watching with great optimism, the period in which these investments get underway range from two to five years. The residential car park located at the top of Whaligoe Steps is to receive £90,000 of financial input, with current estimations on increasing the parking facilities to accommodate more vehicles.

Access to the car park could still be noted as a concern, but so far, the news is greeted with optimism. Despite not receiving any replies to any communications regarding concerns over further property damage, hazards to residents or visitors alike, it is a positive moment to hear anything which is to benefit the immediate area, via this public announcement. It can only be for the betterment of residents and visitors once this investment is turned into actual activity and purpose.

Since August of this year, throughout September and thus far, October too, I have been doing my rounds up and down Whaligoe Steps. The wildlife has been most entertaining and wonderful to observe. Gulls of various sorts are swooping, watching and generally being active, plus the grey seals keep the North Sea company with their exploration of the coastline.

It is the time of year for sunrise moments and the moon too has been getting in on the action. Not only wonderful moon spectacles at night, but during the early mornings as well.

The moon has been quite a sight, and despite plenty of cloudy skies there have been sunrises too…

Over the past couple of months, the grey seals have been putting on a show. A new-to-me moment of witnessing five grey seals on the rocky coastline at the same time here at Whaligoe Steps, made quite an impression. Here are some photographs to celebrate a welcome coastal visitor.

Sshh… Don’t tell anyone, but last year Halloween featured as a time to focus on a little history and also a time to dress up and be a bit silly. Halloween Special: Miller Brothers Mystery – Whaligoe Eye

This year, as Halloween yet again looms large, I’ll be doing something silly again. Plus, there are some interesting darker-themed events which have surfaced during the historical researching which I might be sharing. Time-permitting, and logistics to consider.

During a busy September this year, plenty of visitors were coming and going. On the odd occasions, I find myself chatting to some of them. Always a pleasure to exchange anecdotes and views about various and sundries. One particular fellow called David Albutt entered into conversation as he was visiting Whaligoe Steps with his drone.

Many thanks for the conversation and for giving permission of such a fabulous photograph from your drone. Whaligoe Steps from the viewpoint of a swooping seagull. David Albutt (@david_albutt) • Instagram photos and videos

Last year, I wanted to give something back to those of you who subscribed to receive a newsletter or two. It was such fun and a pleasure to organise, I’m doing it all over again this year. Thank you to all of you who have signed up. Just know that I barely send newsletters out at the moment, so you’re unlikely to be snowed under!

The giveaway simply has me putting my hand in a cup of scrunched up bits of paper, which contain the names of the individuals who are on the newsletter list, and at random the winner is selected.

Due to the exciting response from those of you who use Facebook, there is going to be a giveaway of a hat. (I only have the one keyring at the moment). Keep your eyes peeled regarding updates for that activity.

Autumn brings a lot more rain than usual, and this year it has created more flow to the waterfall. This photograph was taken by me only a few days ago on a frequent visit down Whaligoe Steps.

The resident cat who is a Star by name, and by nature, has been busy catching rodents around the Steps. She is doing very well for herself.

One last thing to mention for those of you who enjoy following my poetry pursuits, I am thrilled to share I have been published in a second poetry book.

The first book was a charity-driven book of poetry raising awareness about autism, raising money for a charity based in England called ‘Austism Angels UK’…

The second poetry book which includes three of my poems, has a focus firmly on the theme of love, and is a project assembled by the kind and creative mind of Stuart Matthews (Instant Eternal). An impressive list of Poets which belong to a community on Twitter, all contributed their words following prompts. ‘A Whisper of Your Love’ can be purchased from all good book retailers.

Thank you again for your time and kindness, it is much appreciated. Just by following on Twitter, Facebook, checking out this humble blogging website, looking at the photographs, liking comments, subscribing to the mailing list, mentioning the website or generally being so positive about WhaligoeEye.co.uk, you’re helping with keeping attention on the infrastructure here. This in turn, is going to make the environment safer and better in many ways for those who visit or live in the area.

Thank you.

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“Thank you” is the obvious place to start after battling illness in recent weeks, and receiving some welcome kind wishes and sentiment on a return to action. “Thank you” is also for the generosity of time you share when reading the blogs, visiting the social media platforms, signing up to a newsletter, participating in the ‘Postcards’ section of this humble website, and for being You.

I had low expectations when I began this venture in August, last year, due to the life we all find ourselves living. We’re all too busy to be looking at nature themed photography, or reading about community developments, or learning bits of history. But here we are, twelve months in to something which is named “Whaligoe Eye”.

On August 1st, 2022, I posted a blog which contained general updates on various points of interest taking place here around Whaligoe Steps. Watch Your Step… – Whaligoe Eye

One specific aspect in that blog entry regarding the state of the single access lane to the residential carpark and the carpark itself was raised with examples of pot-holes. For those who are interested, the pot-holes have been filled in by the Highland Council. I was reliably informed that the Council Ranger was the individual who took care of these. Many thanks. Here are some photos…

Remaining in theme that this blog entry is a celebration of twelve months deciphering the ownership and maintenance, uploading and use of a website in conjunction with learning about nature and a whole host of other elements which go in to this project, it is also a chance to recognise the Highland Council have stepped up to provide a yellow grit bin for icy conditions (located in the residential carpark), a rubbish bin for the litter situation (also located at the residential carpark) and have now filled in pot-holes. So “Thank you” to all who had a part to play in these welcome additions to the Whaligoe Steps area.

Reflecting over this first year which has really flown by like a seagull swooping in the air, there have been some beautiful natural moments documented and captured. Here’s a shameless gallery for your perusal.

There was a prize giveaway late last year which was fun and a newsletter subscriber was selected at random and received this in the post.

Well, the good news is that it’s happening again! I am currently preparing prizes and if you’re an individual who signed up to receive a newsletter or if you’re a follower on Facebook, then keep your eyes peeled over the next few weeks as developments take place for a celebratory freebie giveaway.

Going to share a gallery of wildflowers which I photographed over recent months around Whaligoe Steps.

Over the past year since Whaligoe Eye began, I’ve slowly been adding content to the ‘Postcards’ section where visitors are kind enough to have their photograph taken during a visit to Whaligoe Steps;

the ‘Nature’ section is constantly being updated with new images (which reminds me, I have plenty of new ones to add!);

there’s been blogs about congestion and highlighting the situation of an unsuitable infrastructure here for visitors and residents alike;

a prize giveaway; coverage of a seal puppy encounter;

updates on traffic incidents; updates about an animal rescue attempt; updates on stonemasonry on the first three flights of Whaligoe Steps thanks to Charles Juhlenski;

coverage throughout June of my ’30 Days Wild’ (an initiative inspired by the Wildlife Trust in understanding and appreciation of our natural world); a little hint of the wealth of historical content (much more to come!); plus on social media some frivolity with Easter, Halloween and Christmas…

All going well, I’m buckling up for the next twelve months to continue posting blogs, adding images to ‘Postcards’ and ‘Nature’ plus making a concerted effort to get this historical content I’ve been researching and reading, to you in some form via WhaligoeEye.co.uk

The issue thankfully is not having the lack of content to share, it is merely juggling the time and resources to share it with you. A blessing in disguise.

The learning curve never ends.

Take care for now, stay safe and sending you positive wishes.

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This is my third blog documenting highlights and outlining what was achieved around Whaligoe Steps, and in some isolated instances, further afield in the county of Caithness, during a The Wildlife Trusts | The Wildlife Trusts initiative called ’30 Days Wild’.

Since 2015, the Wildlife Trust has inspired individuals of all walks of life to appreciate and understand better the natural world which surrounds them.

DAY 21: TUESDAY TREK

DAY 22: CELEBRATING ‘INSECT WEEK’

DAY 23: FOREST WALK… (welcome to Dunnet Forest)

DAY 24: STONE PAINTING (“PSYCHEDELIC CARPET FISH”)

DAY 25: WILDLIFE TRUST LIVE STREAMS… (Webcams | The Wildlife Trusts)

DAY 26: COLOUR BLUE

DAY 27: EIDER DUCKS (SOMATERIA MOLLISSIMA)

DAY 28: DEER SIGHTING!

DAY 29: GREY WAGTAIL (MOTACILLA CINEREA)

DAY 30: CELEBRATING WHALIGOE STEPS

Morning has broken…

Evening Descends…

So many highlights and revelations were taken from this thirty day duration of wildlife observation and study. There were moments of creativity like the stone painting and a little poetry. Times of celebrating specific wildlife or in the case of literature, celebrating the writings of author John Horne.

Expectations were dashed and simultaneously exceeded when no sighting of an orca during a tour of the north sea coastline took place, but yet despite not seeing deer during the ‘wild camp out’ a sighting was made several days later. The photo of a gannet (Morus bassanus) above on the very last trek down the Whaligoe Steps was a real gift, as were the images captured of butterflies from the garden here.

Snails were abundant one soggy morning eclipsing all other wildlife, as white-lipped snails danced in slow-motion on the prominent flora. Initial ideas for that specific day were sidelined as I photographed the snails moving about all around me.

Plenty of captured memories which give me a lot of pleasure in sharing with you. If you’ve visited this location before at Whaligoe Steps, maybe it’ll be of interest. On the other hand, if you simply enjoy viewing wildlife images including birdlife, wildflowers, the sea or even the skies, then I hope this blog entry with the previous two give you something of interest.

LINK to 30 Days Wild ’22 (June 1st – June 10th) 30 Days Wild ’22 (June 1st – June 10th) – Whaligoe Eye

LINK to 30 Days Wild ’22 (June 11th – June 20th) 30 Days Wild ’22 (June 11th – June 20th) – Whaligoe Eye

Locations during this month of natural appreciation ended up with most love landing at the door of Whaligoe Steps obviously, but you’ll also note the north coastline boat trip I took around the John O’Groats area, Dunnet Forest for some alternative terrain, two local gardens to the Whaligoe Steps and the recognition to the Wildlife Trust streaming section of their official website. This is where I tipped my hat to Norfolk (water voles) and ‘Scotland’ (Peregrine falcons).

Thank you only always for your time and interest, time for me to set sail again…

Stay safe and take care.

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This is my second blog regarding my humble attempt at following the inspiration of ’30 Days Wild’. Each day of June it’s all about appreciating and understanding more about Mother Nature, an initiative started back in 2015 by The Wildlife Trusts | The Wildlife Trusts.

Documenting each day from June 11th to June 20th, this second blog will showcase everything from going orca spotting in the north sea, to signing an online Wildlife Trust approved petition.

DAY 11: WILDLIFE TRUST APPROVED PETITION

DAY 12: SUNDAY STROLL

DAY 13: MELLOW MONDAY

DAY 14: PICNIC

DAY 15: SNAIL WATCH

DAY 16: CAITHNESS SKIES

DAY 17: NATURE-THEMED POEM + EXPLORING SHALLOW CAVE…

DAY 18: FIRST DAY OF THE ‘BIG CAMP OUT’ WEEKEND!

DAY 19: SECOND DAY OF ‘BIG CAMP OUT’ + ORCA WATCH ALONG COASTLINE!

Hoping for a sighting of an orca, but sadly no luck this time…

DAY 20: READING A BOOK OUTDOORS

I own a 2nd edition of ‘A Canny Countryside’ which was written by John Horne and features wonderful articulated descriptions of this local area, including the Whaligoe Steps. (Published in 1902, Oliphant Anderson and Ferrier, Edinburgh and London).

Thank you only always for your time and I hope you have enjoyed the wildlife so far. One more blog which will summarise ’30 Days Wild’ for June 21st to June 30th is to follow, plus a blog about the residential car parking and my near-miss as a car nearly ran me over on the pavement outside my front door!

Until next time, take care and thank you again.

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Since 2015, The Wildlife Trusts | The Wildlife Trusts have been promoting nature appreciation with a programme running over thirty days in the month of June. My first time attempting some nature-based education and fun began last year but sadly I didn’t get to complete the entire event for various reasons.

This blog aims to share the fun of the first ten days of June, 2022, for 30 Days Wild here around Whaligoe Steps on the north easterly coastline of Scotland. The plan is to share the following twenty days over two more blogs. Wish me luck!

DAY 1: WILD BREAKFAST

DAY 2: FAMILY OF SHAGS (PHALACROCORAX ARISTOTELIS)

DAY 3: SEAWEED & ALGAE IDENTIFICATION

DAY 4: SENSORY WALK

DAY 5: BAREFOOT IN NATURE

DAY 6: WILDFLOWER IDENTIFICATION

DAY 7: BIRDWATCHING

DAY 8: WORLD OCEAN DAY

DAY 9: SOWING WILDLIFE TRUST WILDFLOWER SEEDS!

DAY 10: BUTTERFLY WATCH

Thank you as always for dropping by during these busy times we live in, and I hope you found some of these images to be enjoyable. There are twenty days to go, so the idea is to split those up into two more blogs each covering ten days of capture and content. Keep your fingers crossed.

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If I’m watching a television series and there is a gap between watching the episodes, I find myself thankful when the creators of such a show provide a recap. That magical reminder of the characters and their story arc, the prompt to pick up where I left off whilst watching avidly on prior occasions.

So here it is for those of you who are new to the “Whaligoe Eye” project (and there has been a significant increase of visitors to this humble website), covering life on and around the remarkable Whaligoe Steps, here in the north Highlands of Scotland.

This recap also applies to those who have dropped by in the past thanks to my coverage of Stonemasonry undertaken by Charles Juhlenski on the Steps; the blogs covering my thirteen day monitoring of a grey seal pup here at Whaligoe Steps; the coverage of ongoing congestion and overwhelming traffic issues which have plagued the local infrastructure here causing a significant amount of anxiety and stress for visitors and locals alike, or general curiosity after the welcome social media interest in my poetry and promotion of this website.

Although the history of Whaligoe Steps can be dated back via documented sources to around 1640, the Steps we can witness at the time of this blog entry are commonly associated to the sterling investment of Captain David Brodie. He commissioned around 330 Caithness flagstones to be set in the cliff face to provide a robust pathway down to what is known as the Bink, which is situated at the base of the zig-zagging descent. The year most commonly associated with Captain Brodie and his intent on creating a better walkway is around 1791.

I’m not going to enter into a whole chronological history lesson right now, that can wait for the book which I’m researching and constantly working on. Just know that living here for over thirty years, I count my blessings being entertained, stimulated and marvelling at the world around me regarding Whaligoe Steps. So let me take this opportunity to share the story thus far dating back only a few months when I kickstarted this modest blogging website.

Due to the frustrating lack of acknowledgement by the Highland Council to the plight facing residents and visitors to Whaligoe Steps over the past five years (!), I took the plunge and paid for this website in August, 2021. For one reason or another, nobody else was in a situation locally to provide a sensible and socially aware approach to bringing attention to the evident health and safety risks of residents and visitors here.

After being informed by other residents of constant minor vehicle-related incidents in the residents carpark, or near misses to pedestrians in relation to the significant increase to traffic either mounting the kerb, or trying to negotiate a singular access point which was not built for purpose of this magnitude, I decided to do something about it! The proverbial cherry on top of the cake arrived nearly a year prior, when in September, 2020, my outer wall was knocked down by an impressive sized campervan! My stress levels hit an all time high.

As of the middle of January, 2022, I’m sad to update one and all with how nothing has changed regarding this specific concern. Mind you, in fairness to the Highland Council they did eventually provide a well-used dustbin for refuse collection as we had at that point no facilities other than a yellow grit bin! The rubbish bin is a silver lining to what has been a huge disappointment thus far.

I took a screenshot of a relevant online meeting the Highland Council orchestrated regarding significant increases to tourism in the Highlands and the impacts thereof. This meeting was held on September 29th (2021) and apart from their back-slapping over providing wardens to assess and data-collect, they also recognised that lessons in social media would be beneficial.

Despite only one local Councillor venturing out to meet me and discuss or listen to my woes, I have emailed all others from the local Ward to no avail. The warden I witnessed on a couple of occasions who visited the carpark and immediate area when no traffic and disruption was unfolding, made no overtures of communication or data-collection from myself or those who I have spoken with.

Sharing this with you is surprisingly cathartic, so I extend my humble thanks to you for listening.

So the first blog entry was on August the 15th, 2021, reporting on the chaos of another year busy with visitors to Whaligoe Steps, and tales of being unable to park in allocated spaces as they were full. As the days rolled by in a blur of constant monitoring and anxiety, the website began to take on other elements of what makes this community so interesting and precious.

There was a trip taken with Caithness Seacoast in 2021 which added to the learning curve regarding the relationship of Whaligoe Steps in context to the coastline leading to Wick. During this time I was learning about the abundant wildlife around Whaligoe Steps, and raising awareness regarding the ominous situation on my doorstep with congestion and volume of visitors by talking to some local newspapers…

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“Whaligoe Eye” by this point was showcasing galleries representing Nature – Whaligoe Eye plus photographs of visitors who were happy to be added to Postcards – Whaligoe Eye

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Another highlight for me was getting the opportunity to talk to the Stonemason Charles Juhlenski and see him at work. For several months he worked hard repairing and maintaining a couple of flights from the total of six which make up Whaligoe Steps.

Before the end of 2021, on my regular treks down the Steps I was privileged to discover a baby grey seal on the pebble shore. For thirteen days I monitored the transition as the white fur gave way to a grey coat, and the general confidence the pup developed as it became aware of its surroundings. Two blogs covered this experience and even now I am so warm-hearted by the whole encounter.

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I think that will do for what was supposed to be a condensed recap of the past few months here at Whaligoe Steps.

The positive feedback and support from local folk as well as those beautiful people from around the globe, from Australia to Africa, Canada and the U.S., to many other interesting parts of the Earth, have been at times sincerely overwhelming. I thank you one and all.

It would be remiss of me not to say that your continued support simply visiting and reading some of the content; following the various social media enterprises associated with this website; and those who subscribed to this venture via the online form, are very much appreciated and add to the unity of cultural insight and awareness of this area of the Highlands coastline in Scotland. You also get to peek behind a curtain and relate to community impact in the face of a perceived apathy and uncomfortable political situation. I share my humble gratitude with you and look forward to sharing more of this unfolding true story with you.

This year, 2022, is looking like it will be one truly insane time! Where unassuming visitors and residents already battle-weary, will be confronting another dangerous and chaotic arena of feverish activities. Not only is access for emergency services in question, but sadly the constant call for updates within the infrastructure here to cater for toilet facilities, better signage, safer conditions for pedestrians, better parking allocation, and perhaps some communication/transparency from the Highland Council with the residents regarding intentions or plans which may be ahead.

Be assured that it’s my intention to continue working on updates for this website throughout 2022. Covering as much of the evolving landscape, wildlife, revealing the history as I research it, and capturing the carnage which is to follow as the months creep forward.

Thank You again, you’re amazing. Take care and stay safe.

Gary.

TWITTER: Whaligoe Eye (@WhaligoeEye) / Twitter

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Latest Blog Entry: A Cool Descent… – Whaligoe Eye

Here in the Highlands of Scotland we are blessed with some majestic views, vibrant wildlife, and a hardened lifestyle dwelling within Mother Nature’s ever-changing frame. This website was a springboard to bring attention to the precarious and evidently inadequate infrastructure at Whaligoe Steps, which at the time of this blog entry still exists sadly. But as the months roll by, this humble website has become something more.

I am constantly humbled by not only the feedback from individuals who visit the website, but also the steep learning curve of learning. With an abundance of wildlife on my doorstep so to speak, I am consistently digesting new-to-me information about the various species which consider the environment their home.

Check out the “Nature” section of this website if you get a spare moment: Nature – Whaligoe Eye

In previous blog posts, I have been bouncing with joy over the many sightings of grey seals. Since the start of August, one seal was spotted. Then two seals. Finally my over-zealous excitement burst with the most heart-warming enthusiasm when a third seal was sighted in the waters of the north sea here.

During the many regular treks down Whaligoe Steps it became apparent that one of the grey seals was huge! Unnervingly so as it happens. Whispers amongst those who knew of this were suspecting a pregnancy. After some rapid research, the time of year being October of 2021, it all felt like something special was going to unfold.

On the 10th of December, I found myself melancholy at the state of the nearest pebble shore at Whaligoe Steps. The previous nights had seen storms of significant power batter the coastline, and with such weather arrived a collection of plastic-related pollution, plus some heavy timber. One item caught my eye. It looked to be a white plastic bag or flimsy container which moved. There was a breeze, so it was totally plausible.

On closer inspection, I discovered the white object was in fact a living, breathing grey seal pup! As I share this with you, I cannot articulate sufficiently what this meant to me. My instinctive panic to what may befall such a beautiful example of Mother Nature if visitors from afar were to unintentionally harm or alarm it, or in cases I have seen via articles on seal clubbing or abuse to such native coastline wildlife which was intentional and thoughtless, took hold of my thoughts.

Due to the significant levels of visitors which travel here these days, and despite the crisp cold air of December where once upon a time local people would not see anyone, there are still people who frequent this area. I became almost maternal in my protective ways, and those residents who knew of its existence also adopted an unspoken veil of secrecy regarding the arrival of this pebble shore baby.

I checked out the RSPCA website and even tried to phone them as I was caught up in my woes for the safety of such a wild, yet young grey seal: Seal Pup Found Alone | RSPCA

Apparently after further reading, the Mum nurtures and brings up the newly born pup for about a month before setting it free on a nearby beach or shoreline. The seal pup will then be at the mercy of its own instincts and the environment in which it evolves for about two weeks or so. During this time the seal pup is learning about the relationship with the sea, food and protein, and everything else you can imagine when a living species enters its habitat.

There were days when the seal pup would do very little in the way of movement as it conserved energy. It gave off a serene ambience whilst absorbing all around with those beautiful large dark orbs. In the video clips above you may note how the fur is beginning to change. Within the thirteen days I was gifted the opportunity of monitoring and observing it, the physical changes which transpired were remarkable.

I mentioned the plastic pollution that washed up around the same time the grey seal pup made its grand entrance on the pebble shore. The photograph below was taken during an impressive clearance of the larger and potentially more hazardous items which were briefly in close proximity to the pup.

I will share with you some more of my personal experience with this adorable example of the wildlife which graces the shores here in the United Kingdom. Be patient with me as I need to forage amongst my documented footage and photographs to find out which ones are the finest, and then treat them so they are appropriate to be uploaded. Part 2 will be posted in the next day or so as I juggle the Festive period and all that comes with such traditions.

Many thanks for dropping by, it is appreciated.

Remember you can find “Whaligoe Eye” on Facebook: Whaligoe Eye – Home | Facebook

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Take care and be safe.