Forgetting binoculars was not a good start but the scope in the boot led to a short but interesting seawatch this morning at Aberporth beach carpark.
Kittiwakes were passing south in ones and twos when 2 rapidly approaching menacingly dark shapes (no, not the carpark attendants) raised my pulse and that of the poor kittiwake selected for harassment. There ensued a classic aerial pursuit with both skuas taking turns to chase and tangle with the agile gull which, avoiding being forced down onto the sea several times, eventually made its escape. Then the drizzle arrived from Ireland.
Dark phase Arctic Skuas, poss juvs as the central tail feathers were visible but not long. Probably practising their skills on a kittiwake flying alone.
Supporting cast: Shag, Cormorant with juv, Black headed gull juv with adults, lone Common Scoter, Gannets with 1 juv seen, a few Manxies flying north and a seal.