主播大秀 Radio 4’s will show people the sounds of the coast. Ed Tooth, National Trust ranger on the Farne Islands, writes for Springwatch about the sounds that make the islands - a wildlife haven off the Northumberland coast – special.
Credit: National Trust Images, Jon Millar
The Farne Islands, the place that I am lucky enough to call home, lie a mile off the wild and windswept coast of Northumberland. For nine months a year I live and work here, counting birds and seals and welcoming thousands of visitors.
I am coming into my third season and completely and utterly captivated with this incredible place.
Being cold is normal. Not showering is normal. Living with 85,000 pairs of birds is normal.
It’s the best normal I have known.
Credit: national Trust Images, Chris Lacey
In summer the islands play home to an internationally important seabird colony. Puffins burrow in nearly every available patch of earth. Guillemots, Razorbills and Shags blanket the cliffs and Arctic Terns take up residence around our accommodation. Every trip outside involves running a gauntlet of sharp beaks and poo. In the winter the islands are an important pupping and moulting ground for five thousand Grey Seals.
When we arrive in March the islands are still and at first glance seem lifeless. The chatter of wintering Wrens, the howling of the wind and the pounding of the sea is all that can be heard. It is wild and untamed.
But after a few weeks the islands burst into life. For 24 hours a day you hear Kittiwakes calling their name, the gentle hum of thousands of Guillemots, the croaking of Shags and the chattering of Arctic Terns. The rangers’ accommodation has thin and draughty windows: no good for keeping in the heat but perfect for letting the wonderful sounds of the islands follow wherever you go.
Credit: National Trust Images, Chris Lacey
In August the islands fall silent again as the seabirds move off to their wintering grounds far and wide. It’s impossible not to miss the sounds, sights and smells of these incredible animals.
In October the seals come ashore to pup. The noise and chaos return, as hungry pups call and adult seals wail. It is easy to understand where the myth of the mermaid comes from.
Then it is time for me to leave and return to civilisation. Even the sleepy Northumberland village of Seahouses seems too noisy and busy; after a hot shower I begin to long for the islands again.
Credit: National Trust Images, Joe Cornish
On Friday 1st April the Farne Islands reopen to the public. Discover more about this special place at