Trash or treasure? Canada Geese may be regarded as pests throughout much of their British range, but, here on the Isle of Mull, they are still something of a novelty. Their numbers are steadily increasing on the island, yet they were unheard of as a breeding species locally as recent as a decade ago!
Common Seals are marvellous creatures, supremely adapted to their waterworld existence. As well as having an attractive cuteness that endears them to most, they also have a rogue-like side to their nature that has brought them into conflict with man in the West Highlands. They may be generalised fish-eaters, but Common Seals are opportunistic hunters and not averse to varying their diet with the occasional water bird.
As we descended from our walk today to the shore of the sea loch, our attention was aroused by an inquisitive seal that appeared to be stalking a pair of Canada Geese. Canada Geese are among the largest and heaviest of British birds, weighing in at a hefty 5 kg. Known to catch and dismember birds as large as Eider (2.5 kg), this seal may have been thinking of biting off more than it could chew.
Becoming increasingly agitated by the presence of this mammal, the geese weren’t for taking any chances and, rather wisely, decided not to hang around for any post mortem!
Common Seals are marvellous creatures, supremely adapted to their waterworld existence. As well as having an attractive cuteness that endears them to most, they also have a rogue-like side to their nature that has brought them into conflict with man in the West Highlands. They may be generalised fish-eaters, but Common Seals are opportunistic hunters and not averse to varying their diet with the occasional water bird.
As we descended from our walk today to the shore of the sea loch, our attention was aroused by an inquisitive seal that appeared to be stalking a pair of Canada Geese. Canada Geese are among the largest and heaviest of British birds, weighing in at a hefty 5 kg. Known to catch and dismember birds as large as Eider (2.5 kg), this seal may have been thinking of biting off more than it could chew.
Becoming increasingly agitated by the presence of this mammal, the geese weren’t for taking any chances and, rather wisely, decided not to hang around for any post mortem!
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