Arctic Tern Attack
Red Phalarope | Eider Duck
Red Phalarope
Red phalaropes have flown all the way from the tropics to feed in these rich Arctic waters. They stir up the tiny creatures that are now flourishing
here, with a special spinning dance. All excellent fuel, as they hurry to raise the next generation.
Eider Dick and Chicks
The Arctic Tern have made an even longer journey to breed here. They have flown the 11,000 miles from the Antarctic. The newly hatched chicks
will need to grow fast, if they are going to accompany their parents when they return south in only six weeks time..
An Eider duck has chosen to nest in the centre of the tern colony, hardly a tranquil place to raise your young. But, noisy neighbours who have
a feisty attitude to life can be very valuable.
Polar Bear Attacked by Arctic Tern
A hungry polar bear, looking for a meal, can destroy hundreds of nests in a single raid. Defensive squadrons of terns take off immediately.
Sharp beaks stab down from above. The bear has nothing in his armoury that can cope with this. The terns have drawn blood from his muzzle. He leaves
in search of an easier meal.
The Eiders survive thanks to their choice of neighbours and the ducklings begin their sprint to the maturity.
Fishing continues around the clock as the terns race to rear their young before the return of the freeze. So, the rich waters of summer fuel the breeding of all these visitors and enable them to build up the reserves they'll need for the long return journey south.
