A bit of a mouthful

Really really nice day for a walk out at Gullane. Bit busier than normal (and the usual collection of dog walkers ignoring the signs indicating dogs aren't allowed in the nature reserve), but wandering round the Point and paddling out along Aberlady Bay was a nice chance to try and switch off a bit.

While it was nice to see some Gannets in the distance (including one as it just hit the water); the nearer Sandwich Terns were an absolute joy. The wee guy in the extra is a juvenile, one of this year's chicks, being fed by the parents from time to time (one of them in the extras as well - the light was utterly perfect for bird photos).

Also in the extras are a tiny springtail insect called Anurida maritima - I'm fascinated by these little things. They've long since lost the ability to jump, unlike other springtails, but float around in rafts like this in rockpools, looking for carrion to scavenge on. There's something about the colour, and then seeing them scattered by the wind and desperately trying to raft back together, that intrigues me.