The healing power of nature :

Being able to spend time photographing spectacular migratory seabirds is always a memorable experience, not just simply to photograph, but to observe the impressive Northern gannet, a seabird specie of simplistic perfection that inspires both the heart and mind …

The Northern gannet (Morus bassanus) the largest seabird in the northern Atlantic with a wingspan of up to 2 m (6.6 ft) the wings positioned towards the front of the body, allowing efficient use of air currents when flying.

Even in the event of calm weather, Gannets can gain flying speeds of between 55 - 65 km/h (34 - 40 mph) but despite their speed, but they are certainly not the most manoeuvrable in flight.

On landing Gannets use the aid of angled wings, a fanned out tail and raised feet to control their speed, which sadly is not always successful, damaged or broken wings, the frequent cause of death in adults…

Each year, the incredible sight and sounds of one of the UK's largest gannet breeding colonies at RSPB Bempton in Yorkshire is a must for any photographer , to witness and photograph this most elegant and graceful bird alongside the thousands of Guillemots , Razorbills , Kittewakes , Fulmars and the iconic puffins who join then on the towering 300ft Chalk cliffs …

Gannets pair for life and will return to the same nest site for many years to raise the next generation ...

Sadly over the past few years Gannets have been greatly affected by Avian flu, which affects poultry and wild birds alike.

As with many other viruses, there are many different strains avian flu, most of which cause no or fewsigns of disease in infected wild birds.

But by contrast, the emergence of the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), can cause severe disease with sadly a high mortality rate. The current strain has had a devastating effect on the wild bird population.

Over 70 UK bird species have tested positive for avian flu, including 20 of 25 regular breeding seabird species, including geese, ducks, swans and raptor species such as Peregrine Falcon, Hen Harrier, Buzzard, White-tailed Eagle and Golden Eagle.

But a recent scientific study has now discovered evidence that the Northern Gannet can potentially recover from Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1, with the familiar pale blue eyes of individuals who have recovered now showing black irises indicating a previous infection.

This evidence was first seen in Gannets breeding on the Bass Rock in June 2022 with colour varying from completely black to mottled.

Scientists completed blood tests from 18 seemingly healthy adult Gannets with both pale blue and black irises, tests were then conducted for bird flu antibodies by APHA to determine whether the birds had been previously infected. Eight tested positive, of which seven had black irises. As yet there is no indication as to whether it applies to any other species and whether there are any detrimental impacts to the birds’ vision.

Research and test will now be needed to determine what is causing the black colouration.”

Over the past two years, I have photograph numerous Northern Gannets clearly showing black iris's ... a sign of hopeful recovery from the healing power of nature …