This was my first Lundy Wildlife Ambassador (WLA) trip this year. We left the picturesque harbour of Ilfracombe promptly, under the enigmatic gaze of Verity and I enjoyed a quick coffee from the well stocked buffet before heading out onto the decks to chat Lundy wildlife with passengers. It was the usual mixture of regular visitors (Lundy is very addictive!), first timers, people staying on Lundy and day visitors like me. This last included a group from Wells school heading out to survey Lundy as part of a Devon based field course. Also on board were some Lundy volunteers as part of a work party and one of the Lundy Ambassadors who was going to lead a walk around the south end of the Island.

The journey was quiet, as seabirds tend to prefer stronger winds, but we still saw a few Manx Shearwater, Guillemot, Razorbill and the occasional Puffin. Around the halfway point a cluster of distant fins were just visible, possibly feeding activity as they had no interest in approaching the Oldenburg. Common Dolphin on this route will sometimes zoom over to the Oldenburg for the sheer pleasure of a bow ride.

We arrived at high tide, when the Grey Seals’ favoured haul-out sites were submerged but a few could be seen swimming nearby while they waited for the tide to fall. These resting places are essential for their wellbeing, allowing them to recover and warm up after feeding. Away from safe havens such as Lundy, Grey Seals are far more vulnerable to disturbance.

Once ashore, I headed for the old battery on the west coast. The path is steep walking down and a cardiac work out on the return but so worth the effort! Lundy was declared free from non-native rats in 2006 after a combined effort by The RSPB, English Nature, The Landmark Trust and The National Trust. The recovery in breeding success by the islands seabirds has been phenomenal. The Puffin has rapidly expanded north and south from it’s once remaining stronghold above Jenny’s Cove. Now the Old Battery is a favourite viewing spot for these endearing and tough oceanic birds and a warden plus telescope is often here to assist with excellent views.

Sightings were similar on the return, and more distant fins were briefly spotted. Nearing Ilfracombe a small feeding flock of Gannet offered hope of cetaceans underneath! but none were seen.

I’d like to thank the crew of the Oldenburg, the island staff, and volunteers for their continued assistance with the work of MARINElife.

Maggie Gamble, MARINElife Wildlife Ambassador