Let's get away while we can

Kittiwakes falling flying off the cliffs at The Bathe, Dunbar, East Lothian. Their eggs are due and it seems that before nesting, they're taking the opportunity to fly together. It's quite spectacular when the entire cliff takes off together, flies round the bay and returns together. The take-off technique is to fall straight down, then catch themselves just at the last minute. They cry as they set off and land, "kitti-WAKE! kitti-WAKE!"

This suited today because I thought "Let's get away while we can," and spent the morning planning a break with the children. We're off for an adventure to Arran on Thursday by train, ferry and bus to camp for a couple of nights. Pretty much every Youth Hostel in Scotland and the lakes is booked so camping's the only option. I phoned to check on the "midge forecast" and they've "not felt any yet." A telling phrase!