Black Craig

Island in Banffshire

Scotland

Black Craig

Wheatear on Whins There were several of these perching on the fence posts and whins. Strictly speaking they are Northern Wheatear (Oenanthe oenanthe), and the Oxford English Dictionary confirms that name was originally derived from &#039;white arse&#039; from the conspicuous white rump that is seen when the bird is in flight. However the OED does not confirm the story that the name was bowdlerised by prudish Victorians; as early as 1653 one J Taylor noted that &quot;The name of Wheat ears, on them is ycleap&#039;d, Because they come when wheat is yearly reap&#039;d.&quot; — Wheatear on Whins Credit: Anne Burgess

Black Craig is a small island located off the northeastern coast of Scotland in Banffshire. It is situated in the Moray Firth, approximately 1.5 kilometers from the mainland. The island is rocky and rugged, with steep cliffs rising up from the sea. It covers an area of around 0.2 hectares and has no permanent human residents.

The name "Black Craig" is derived from the Gaelic word "craig," meaning rock. The island is aptly named as it is dominated by a large black rock formation that gives it a distinctive appearance. This rock formation is the result of volcanic activity that occurred millions of years ago.

Black Craig is home to a variety of seabirds, including gulls, puffins, and cormorants. The island provides an important breeding ground and sanctuary for these species, as well as a resting place for migratory birds. During the breeding season, the island comes alive with the sights and sounds of nesting seabirds.

Access to Black Craig is limited due to its remote location and lack of facilities. It is primarily visited by birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts who appreciate its unique geological features and the abundance of birdlife. Boat trips are available from nearby coastal towns for those wishing to explore the island.

In summary, Black Craig is a small, rocky island off the coast of Banffshire, Scotland. Its striking black rock formation, diverse bird population, and remote location make it an appealing destination for nature lovers and birdwatchers.

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Black Craig Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 57.686793/-2.3276619 or Grid Reference NJ8066. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Wheatear on Whins

There were several of these perching on the fence posts and whins. Strictly speaking they are Northern Wheatear (Oenanthe oenanthe), and the Oxford English Dictionary confirms that name was originally derived from 'white arse' from the conspicuous white rump that is seen when the bird is in flight. However the OED does not confirm the story that the name was bowdlerised by prudish Victorians; as early as 1653 one J Taylor noted that "The name of Wheat ears, on them is ycleap'd, Because they come when wheat is yearly reap'd."

Anne Burgess

Yellowhammer (Emberiza citronella)

Quite a common bird of fields and rough ground, sometimes also venturing into gardens. Its song is very distinctive, said to sound like 'A little bit of bread and no CHEESE'.

Anne Burgess

Looking down on Crovie

The area at the bottom is the only part of the village that can be reached by motor vehicles and is reserved for local residents' use. This is the view from the public car park higher up the cliff. A feature of the village is that every single building bar one is Listed. (The local pronunciation is – more or less – Crivvy)

Alan Murray-Rust

Ravels Den

A deep-cut dene leading down to Downie Bay, probably the result of meltwater erosion at the end of the Ice Age.

Alan Murray-Rust

Wheatears on a fence

Alongside the footpath to Troup Head.

Alan Murray-Rust

Wheatears on whin

Alongside the footpath to Troup Head. (I would call this gorse, but whin is the native word!)

Alan Murray-Rust

Landslip in Ravels Den

A deep-cut dene leading down to Downie Bay, probably the result of meltwater erosion at the end of the Ice Age. The slip shows the friable rock forming the upper stratum at this point.

Alan Murray-Rust

Northfield Farm, Gamrie parish

The tower is the stump of an early 19th century windmill, Listed Category B. The Listing states that it is reputed to contain the remains of a 12th century church.

Alan Murray-Rust

A general view of Crovie

The Conservation Area Appraisal Link

states that the village first became established in the early 18th century, either as a result of the clearances or simply as a new fishing village, although it is unclear which. Expansion came from 1718 when a government fishing bounty was introduced. By 1820 9 drifters and 28 smaller boats were in operation. The photo shows the difficulties that must have arisen from rocky foreshore exposed at low tide, with only a small area of shingle beach for beaching boats. The jetty was not built until 1883 to afford some protection as well as easier landing of catch at lower tides. At this stage there were some 60 vessels of varying sizes! The Great Storm of 1953 caused severe damage with breaches of the sea wall and major damage to buildings, to the extent that in 1958 there was a Government order to abandon the village. Local opposition to this ensured its survival, although today many of the buildings are owned as holiday homes.

Alan Murray-Rust

Crovie, Aberdeenshire

Taken from Crovie Viewpoint, south of the town at around 60m AOD

Hobs

Crovie

A view across Gamrie Bay towards the fishing village of Crovie

Ralph Greig

Hanging out the washing

Crovie village Centre with post box, phone box and the washing

Ralph Greig

The Fishing village of Crovie

Ralph Greig

Craigandargity, off Gardenstown

Rocks in Gamrie Bay. There were cormorants visible on the rocks.

Carron K

Gardenstown and harbour

A view of the village from the harbour wall.

Alan Findlay

Gardenstown village

Attractive though this is, I can see that there would be some disadvantages about living here. Fancy returning home late at night and finding someone coming the other way. One or both of you might end up in the sea!

David Purchase