Tag: seals

Dolphins

Anglesey Dolphins – there are two main types of Porpoise that regularly visit the islands coast. These are the Harbour Porpoise and the Bottlenose Dolphin.

Harbour Porpoise are true to their name, they stick to shallower waters closer to the shore. They prefer coolers water, often inhabiting harbours and outer estuary areas. These are the smallest porpoise in European waters, only reaching about up to around 1.5 metres in length. They do not breach from the sea on a regular basis like other species and often stay clear of boats. You will however spot them easily enough as their backs and small triangular dorsal fins clear the water.

Bottlenose Dolphins are very different from their Harbouse Porpoise cousins. They will often fully breach the water giving great displays. They are a very curious and intelligent mammals. Moreover they will often approach boats to check them and their occupants and will, when playful travel in the boats wake. The Bottlenose Dolphin grow up to around 4 metres in length and are identifiable by there more sickle shaped dorsal fin. The UK biggest pod of these dolphins lives to the south of Anglesey in Cardigan Bay.

As well as porpoise there are other marine animal that regularly visit the coasts of Anglesey such the Minke Whale, these can grow up to 10 metres in length. Though these are usually seen further out from shore by the boats.

Several species of turtle visit the coastline in search food like jellyfish in summer. Seals also have colonies around the island and are commonly seen around the coastal path. Oh and last but not least, two killer Whales were spotted off South Stack in June 2018, part of a pod that live around the Hebrides in Scotland.

What will you see?
Holyhead Mountain

Holyhead Mountain is the highest mountain on Holy Island and Anglesey, its peak reaches 220 metres or 720 feet. Moreover it has a diverse ecology as well as several sites of historical significance. Though officially its not classed a mountain.

An ideal location for a ramble! Numerous paths navigate around or over the mountain taking in different abilities, each one has its own merits. There are several parking areas on different sides of the mountain for you to choose, allowing to get closer to the areas you would like to see.

Given its size there really is so much to see around the mountain. Central paths towards the summit have a broad range of wildlife, including snakes and lizards! The coastal paths offer fantastic views out to sea, chances of seeing seals are high. Dolphins and Harbour Porpoise are also seen around this section of coast. As the weather warms up you may even see a basking sharks in the area.

Historical sites or feature points are dotted around the mountain too, North Stack and its cove full of seals are great to watch, further more South Stack is a haven for sea birds. The nest sites dot the cliffs from April to July with thousand of birds. Puffins nest in the area and the rare Chough is found in its highest numbers across Wales.

I suppose the bucket list item is to walk up to the summit. From here you can almost see across the entire island, Ireland is visible on clearer days.

There are climbers that regularly attempt to sheer south facing side of the mountain, it looks fun but its not to every ones tastes! The mountain is also a great place to bring your dogs, there is tons of space and miles of path ways. Just be careful on the summit as they like to run around, dog forget to bag it and bin it too.

Close to the summit are the remains of an old roman watchtower known as
Caer y Twr, beleived to sit within the remains of an Iron Age hillfort. There are also remains of stone circle huts in the vacinity. It is believed these date from around the 3rd century.

On the South West coast of the mountain is South Stack and its RSPB visitors centre complete with cafe and toilets. Home to huge colonies of birds, moreover, you can watch these from Ellins Tower. You may even get a glimpse of the resident Peregrine falcons. On the approach to the visistors centre you will see a small carpark on your left. Park here and just across the road you will find Ty Mawr, a collection of stone hut circles around 2000 years old.

Parking can be found at RSPB Visitor centre, Holyhead LL65 1YH (here is best)

Or

Breakwater Country Park, Holyhead, LL65 1YG LL65 1YG

Whats on your list? Get out and find it!

The closest toilets are at the Holyhead Breakwater Country Park LL65 1YG or the RSPB building at South Stack.
Puffin Island

Puffin Island is a little jewel just off the North East coast of Anglesey. It is at the northerly starting point of the Menai Strait and is a haven for wildlife. Regular boat trips depart from Beaumaris for this very reason.

St Seiriol had monastery here in the 6th century which is still just visible on the top of the island today, he was closely linked with Penmon Priory.

These days it is only wildlife that live on the island, it is currently a bird sanctuary. Comorants, Shags and the Altantic Grey Seals are residents here year round and they can be seen in high numbers from the cruise boats. During the breeding season which is around April – July there are many other species on the island. Outside of this period alot of these breeding birds will remain out to sea. Razorbills, Guillemot, Kittiwakes and Puffins are some of the these regular visitors.

Unfortunately and accidentally rats were introduced to Puffin island and the Puffin colony was decimated, with the rats feeding on the breeding Puffins eggs and chicks. Moreover following this accidental introduction a program to remove the rats has now been completed and the islands bird populations have bounced back. However there are still only very small numbers of puffins returning during the breeding season, fingers crossed this will increase again with time.

The waters around the island are rich in marine life, providing a source of food for the nesting birds and seals that call the island home. Puffin Island is also frequented by Harbour Porpoise and Bottlenose Dolphins, great to watch if you are lucky enough to see them. The waters provide plentiful bounties of food hence they frequent the area. Particularly true in summer when the large shoals of Mackerel move into the area. These in turn are hunting the fish fry or white bait and Sand Eels as the great circle of life continues around us.

You are no longer allowed on Puffin Island, the closest you can get is by boat. It is also popular with small boats and kayaks who fish in the area or come to see the wildlife. There are two companies operating out of Beaumaris that provide pleasure cruises to the island at resonable prices too, for the more adventurous there are fast Rib rides to see the island.

Tried and tested, could not stop grinning!

Top tip – If you head for Penmon Point with a good zoom camera or binoculars you can get a good view. At times none are needed as seals and dolphins may come quite close to the shoreline. Moreover its also good to spot to try fishing for Mackerel, great for a bbq tea.
Llanddwyn Island

Llanddwyn Island, what a place this is. Located on the stunning south coast of Anglesey, a rocky volcanic outcrop surrounded by the most stunning scenery. Moreover, the island is also steeped in history and folklore of ages past.

To the east are the mountains of the Snowdonian range, to the south the rocky Hills of the Lynn Peninsula. West is the vast expanse of Malltraeth Bay with its long sandy beach, to the north the Pine forest of Newborough (Home to red Squirrels). Best views on Anglesey and dare I say, top 5 in the UK?

Access to the island is easy, just walk onto it. It is a tidal island so can become cutoff on bigger high tide, only for an hour or so. In summer it’s shoes and socks off as you wade through the clear water, winter it’s wellies or arrive as the tide recedes.

Oh, and the rocks you see before walking onto the island? These were formed around 500 million years ago by Lava erupting from the sea bed!

As you make you way across the island, keep an eye out for the wild ponies, their grazing helps manage the local fauna. Some can be quite inquisitive and will even come and check you out.

As you walk towards the end, you will soon come across the ruins of the old church / chapel. St Dwynwen’s Church to be exact, the Patron Saint of Lovers. There are several variations of the legend but all end the same, she was cured of her love burden. It was a pilgrimage site during the middle ages and became quite wealthy from it.

As you approach the end of the island you will find the old pilots cottages, the rnli of old. Take a peek inside the windows, one is a museum. If you are lucky you may spot a lizard or two on the wall outside, basking in the sun.

There is an old lighthouse on the end signalling the start of the Menai Strait. A similar but smaller building is guidance for the pilots cove.

The sea around the island is a Mecca for wildlife, above and below the waterline. Seals can be seen quite regular around the island, dolphins or harbour porpoise frequent the area too.

If you plan on hitting the beaches there are many little coves, either sandy or shingle. There is always one or two that are sheltered from any winds.

It takes around 40 minutes to get to the end of the island from the nearest parking spot, thats walking at a decent pace.. The national trust car park at Newborough forest has toilets, showers and usually an ice cream or burger van. It’s a short drive from Newborough through the Red Squirrel Pine forest.

If there is one place you have to visit on Anglesey, this is it. You will definitely be back again, the pictures just don’t do it justice.

Parking at cost can be found here LL61 6SG
South Stack Lighthouse

South Stack lighthouse is based on the western edge of Holy Island, it takes its name from the cliff section it resides by “South Stack”.

Built in 1809 by Trinity House (official lighthouse authority for England and Wales and currently operated remotely) to protect shipping from the rocks around the cliffs it has stood the test of time. That’s no mean feat given the often turbulent and stormy waters off the west coast of Wales.

Today it is still in use as a lighthouse guiding ships across the coast of Anglesey, it is also run as a visitor attraction by South Stack Ynys Lawd Ltd under licence.

The 400 hundred steps down to the bottom is easy enough if going steady but coming back up is a bit of a challenge! The very last section is very steep to access the crossing causeway. The views heading down are fantastic, thousand of birds nest here in the spring and summer. If you a lucky you may spot the Puffins that breed here each year, beautiful birds. Keep your eye out for Lizards too as they can be seen darting about at times.

On arrival at the Island there is a attraction fee to be paid before entry. This gives you access to the paths on the Island and the Lighthouse itself. You can take a tour of the old engine rooms and finally make your way up to the top of the lighthouse. This elevated position lets you see 360 degress around the area, you will see just how many birds call this place home.

Hiding to the right of the picture

Parking is free on the RSPB car park where there is a large cafe, toilets and seating inside and out. The walk is a little strenuous so may not be for everyone, regardless there is lots to see with little effort so definitely give it a go. You will need plenty space for all your pictures!

You can find South Stack at South Stack Holyhead LL65 1YH

Further information on South Stack can be found at https://www.trinityhouse.co.uk/lighthouse-visitor-centres/south-stack-lighthouse-visitor-centre

The closest toilets are in the RSPB building by the main car park.
Anglesey Seals

Atlantic Grey Seals are a regular sight in the Irish Sea around Anglesey, moreover there are multiple little colonies around the island. The island provides the perfect habitat for them with an abundance of food. Rocky coves and secluded inlets and islands allow them to live and breed in relative piece.

Playful Seals

There are several hotspots around Anglesey where you can watch them as they laze around on the rocks and beaches. The Anglesey Coastal path will bring you into close proximity to where the seals live, they can be seen from any section the path in their search for food. Moreover Summer or winter they are on the island year round, they can literally popup at any time.

The seals generally start to give birth to their pups in September through to December. The pups are born fluffy and yellow like baby chickens! If you come across them do not touch or disturb them as they maybe abandoned by their mothers. Try to keep dogs on leads as well as maintaining your distance to avoid distressing them. They are great to watch as they congregate in vast numbers during the breeding season.

Several companies around Anglesey offer cruises, which allow you to see all manner of wildlife. The companies operating from Beaumaris have trips up to Puffin Island, a known hot spot and breeding ground for the seals.

What will you see?
Puffin Island Cruises

Puffin Island Cruises in Beaumaris offer two kinds of trips, Puffin Island Cruises, the Bridges or sea fishing trips.

The cruises are taken at a leisurely pace in comfortable boats which allow you to take in all the scenery the Menai has to offer. The boat will travel in either direction depending on what you want from the trip. Trip one is off towards the southern end of the Menai to take in the two bridges but mainly the Menai Suspension Bridge.

Puffin Island Cruises Kiosk

Designed in 1826 by Thomas Telford, it is a UNESCO world heritage site. The Meani suspension bridge is from local stone, shipped down from the quarry at Penmon. Before the bridge, cattle going to market had to swim across the Menaia low tide!

Trip 2 heads north towards Penmon and Puffin Island with the Great Orme visible in the distance. On the way up to Puffin you will pass the old Penmon Quarry which has now fallen into disrepair.

Penmon Quarry

As you approach the open sea and Puffin Island there are many creatures to keep your eye out for. There is a seal colony that is on the Island year round, the crew will point these out and take you for a closer look.

Puffin Island

Puffin Island is also home to many different species of bird, however given its namesake. Puffins have been almost absent in recent years, but are now making a comeback. Rats made it onto the Island destroying the nesting birds young. These have since been removed and now hopefully Puffins will return in greater numbers. If you are doing a bit of travelling while on Anglesey, nip over to South Stack. Several breeding pair of Puffin live there in breeding season.

What is the Jewel in the crown when out sightseeing on the boats? There are the Dolphins or Harbour porpoise that frequent the area and of course Puffins. Seeing any of these make the trip outworth while. The Menai is abundant with aquatic life that the dolphins can feed on. If you ask at the ticket kiosk they will tell you if they have been seen during the day. Call in advance to book during summer as it is a busy attraction. If the weather is very poor they may not sail so always check first before setting off.

Britannia Bridge

If you fancy taking in both sides of the Menai, Puffin island cruises do an extended trip. This features both the trips combined into one cruise and its slightly cheaper than both separate too.

Puffin Island cruises shouldn’t be missed if visiting Beaumaris, grab your camera and get snapping! Probably the best few hours you can spend while visiting the area, you never know what you may see.

Don’t forget to book in advance. Especially in summer as you won’t want to be disappointed and miss out on this great attraction.

You can find Puffin Island Cruises at Beaumaris Pier, Beaumaris, Anglesey, North Wales LL58 8BS

For more information and the book your trip please visit https://starida.co.uk/
Starida Fishing Trips

Starida fishing trips are based in the picturesque town of Beaumaris on the Menia Straits. Moreover the trips leave from Beaumaris pier which rises and falls with the tide allowing trips at both high and low. A modern little marvel, that it is.

Starida Kiosk

The kiosk pic above shows there are various lengths of Starida sea fishing trips available. The two / three hour trips are quick fishing trips, so these are family oriented to allow you to try it out. All equipment hire and bait needed is included in the price for these trips. By the same token this allows you to just hop aboard and have a go with no worries. Likewise the skipper is more than helpful too, getting you setup and leaving you with nothing to worry about.

A happy little fisherman

These shorter trips take you up towards Puffin Island or further into the straits if the weather is poor. You can catch a wide range of different species in the Menai, from little fish to small sharks, Bass and Rays. All are a possibility on these trips. Moreover there is always a chance to see Seals or Dolphins too as they often visit the surrounding waters.

Nice Bull Huss

Starida was in for servicing on one occasion so a small group of us went out on a smaller boat. The pictures are of the smaller boat, it was the owners son potting boat. We caught and that’s what counts and the skipper is always trying to get you on the fish. Whats more he was great fella too and had the whole group laughing.

Taking the wheel

He even let the children aboard have a quick go of the boat, taking time to explain the instruments. It made it a far more interactive experience for them and not just a fishing trip. Tried and tested!

A great little trip for all the family because fishing and a boat ride all rolled in to one is great. You will see the same views and wildlife as you would on the cruises, whats not to like! It really is a great little trip, not too short or too long for younger children either.

I didn’t blank!

For the more avid fishermen you can hire equipment and bait (£6) or take your own aboard these longer trips. The 4-6 hours trips help enthusiasts indulge in their hobby whilst on holiday!

The 8-10 hours trips are for more experienced anglers and enthusiasts alike. Moreover they involve travelling out to known hots spots or indulging in a bit of wreck fishing. Reef fishing and deep water marks are accessible on these longer trips, allowing you to catch bigger fish species. Rod and Bait hire on these trips costs £12pp.

Sea fishing is great and will be well cared for on these trips. Try it and you might love it!

You can find Starida fishing trips at Beaumaris Pier, Beaumaris, Anglesey, North Wales LL58 8BS

To book your sea fishing trip aboard Starida, please visit https://starida.co.uk/fishing/
Seacoast Safari Cruises and Rib Rides

Seacoast Safari Cruises and Rib Rides are a great way to get on the water. Fast rib rides or take your time having a steady cruise, it’s your call. One thing you won’t be able to stop is the massive grin on your face.

The Rib Rides are seriously fast and exhilarating fun for everyone. Be aware that you will get bounced around and probably a bit wet at the same time.

These high speed boats allow you to see more at a quicker pace. Trips south down the Menai Strait to take in the bridges or even further don’t take long at all. Heading north you can go for a ride around Penmon lighthouse and Puffin Island. A great spot to see the seals and even Dolphins or Harbour Porpoise too at times.

The Seacoast Safari offers a more relaxing and less bumpy ride to see the seals and maybe Puffins. There is also a toilet on board should the need arise.

If you are in Beaumaris then you should definitely at Seacoast Safaris and Rib Rides to your list of things to do

Tried and tested!

You can find Seacoast Safaris at :

Beaumaris Pier, Beaumaris, LL58 8BS

For further information and bookings, please visit https://www.seacoastsafaris.co.uk/